Question:
Electrolite inbalance question..

I have heard of people passing because of a heart attack because of an electrolyte inbalance. How do you make sure that your electrolytes are balanced?    — michellemark2764 (posted on June 7, 2002)

June 7, 2002
Michelle, mostly people who pass from cardiac failure due to electrolyte imbalance do so from not enough potassium. Potassium can be found in many foods including orange juice, bananas, fruits of all kinds, etc. I suggest people who are interested in nutrition purchase a book such as Food Values of Portions Commonly Used, by Jean A.T. Pennington. I have the 15th Edition. It gives the complete nutrient content--calories, salts such as potassium (K) and sodium (Na)(chemical name in parathesis), vitamins, fiber, proteins, etc. Good Luck to you!
   — merri B.

June 7, 2002
Go for bloodwork regularly after surgery... the recommendation I received was 3mos, 6mos and one year if all is stable. Just had some today as a matter of fact. In addition to the electrolytes (K+ is the one associated with cardiac dysrhythmias) I also had Calcium, Protein, B12, and Iron checked. I hope this helps. Best wishes,
   — Ann B.