| Hypochloremia | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Chlorine | |
| Specialty | Endocrinology  |
| Complications | Metabolic alkalosis [1] |
| Causes | Vomiting, Diuretics [2] |
| Treatment | Treat underlying cause, salt and fluid intake[ citation needed ] |
Hypochloremia (or Hypochloraemia) is an electrolyte disturbance in which there is an abnormally low level of the chloride ion in the blood. Normal serum range for chloride is 97 to 107 mmol/L with levels less than 96 mmol/L defining hypochloremia. [3]
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Hypochloremia can contribute to metabolic alkalosis. Patients with mild hypochloremia may be asymptomatic. In significant chloride depletion and the resulting alkalosis, symptoms may include neuromuscular irritability, such as muscle cramps, twitching, and, in severe cases, seizures. [1]
Treatment involves diagnosing the underlying cause. Mild hypochloremia may be corrected by salt intake. For more severe hypochloremia, IV fluids may be given.[ citation needed ]
It rarely occurs in the absence of other abnormalities. It is sometimes associated with hypoventilation. [4] It can be associated with chronic respiratory acidosis. [5] If it occurs together with metabolic alkalosis (decreased blood acidity) it is often due to vomiting. [2] It is usually the result of hyponatremia or elevated bicarbonate concentration. It occurs in cystic fibrosis. [6]
