The frequency of hyponatremia and hypokalemia in malnourished children with acute diarrhea

Dr.Chandrashekhar Koli; Dr.Minakshi Bhat; Dr.Surekha Joshi

Volume : VII, Issue : XII, December - 2018

The frequency of hyponatremia and hypokalemia in malnourished children with acute diarrhea

Dr. Chandrashekhar Koli, Dr. Minakshi Bhat, Dr. Surekha Joshi

Abstract :

Background: Hyponatremia, hypokalemia are common in malnourished children suffering from acute diarrhea .Electrolyte monitoring reduces morbidity ,mortality in children with diarrhoea.

Methods: Data from patients aged 6 months –5 years admitted over 6 months period with acute diarrhoea was noted in a format .History, status of hydration , electrolytes ,nutritional status as per IAP noted.

Results: 103 patients with acute diarrhea, 24(23,30%) were without malnutrition.

Hyponatremia observed in total 18(17.5%), 4.1% without malnutrition(1 in24),8.3% in grade 1(3 in 36 ) , 15.3% in grade 2(4 in 26),50% in grade 3(4 in 8) ,66.6% in grade 4(6 in 9) malnutrition. Hypokalemia noticed in 8.73% (9 out of 103), 4.16%(1 of 24) without malnutrition,5.6% in grade 1(2 of36),7.7% in grade 2( 2 of 26),37.5% in grade 3(3 of 8) and 55.5% in grade 4(5 of 9)malnutrition.

Conclusion:Electrolyte disturbances are subclinical in malnourished children manifest during acute diarrhoea ,hence they should be monitored to avoid complications.