At our clinic, we usually perform chloride level testing alongside an electrolyte panel which includes potassium, sodium, and sometimes bicarbonate (total CO2) tests. Generally, changes in chloride and sodium iron levels occur together.
High chloride ion (hyperchloremia) and sodium (hypernatremia) levels in the blood often indicate dehydration (water loss in the stool or urine) that remains unaffected by drinking lots of water. These conditions may also result from overactive adrenal glands (Cushing’s disease) or kidney problems.
Hyperchloremia also occurs from disorders affecting the blood pH, such as acid neutralisation by loss of carbonic gas by rapid breathing (hyperventilation) or bicarbonate in the blood (metabolic acidosis).
Low chloride ion (hypochloremia) and sodium (hyponatremia) levels occur when any condition causes a reduction in blood sodium levels. Hypochloremia and hyponatremia result from excessively low adrenal gland function (Addison’s disease), prolonged vomiting, emphysema, congestive heart failure and other chronic pulmonary diseases. Acid loss in the body (metabolic alkalosis) usually occurs with hypochloremia.
Book your chloride level testing alongside an electrolyte panel at Private Blood Tests London. You can call 02071830244 to schedule an appointment or visit our clinic at Suite E, 117a Harley St, Marylebone, London W1G 6AT, for chloride level testing.