DOI: 10.36347/sjams.2017.v05i07.075

Pages: 2934-2936

Diabetic patients frequently develop a constellation of electrolyte disorders. These disturbances are particularly common in decompensated diabetics, especially in the context of diabetic ketoacidosis or nonketotic hyperglycaemic hyperosmolar syndrome. These patients are markedly potassium-, magnesium- and phosphate-depleted. Diabetes mellitus (DM) is linked to both hypo- and hyper-natremia reflecting the coexistence of hyperglycaemia-related mechanisms, which tend to change serum sodium to opposite directions. The aim of this study is to measure the serum electrolytes levels in type II DM patients. Thirty diabetic patients with stable glycaemic control and without intercurrent illness or sever diabetic complications were studied on the occasion of a regular follow-up after informed consent was obtained. Thirty non diabetic patients with healthy glucose levels served as controls. Fasting blood samples were collected from control and diabetic subjects in lithium heparin coated tubes. A portion of blood was collected to obtain serum. The electrolytes levels were analysed. The fasting glucose level were significantly (p<0.001) higher among the DM compared to the controls. The Sodium and Chloride levels were also significantly (p<0.001, respectively) higher in DM when compared to the healthy controls. Magnesium level was found to be reduced which is significant (p<0.32, respectively) On the other hand, the Potassium levels were elevated significantly (p<0.001, respectively) different among patients and controls. Electrolytes play an important role in controlling the fluid levels, acid base balance, and regulation of neurological and myocardial functions, oxygen delivery and many other biological processes. Patients with Diabetes mellitus are more prone to develop electrolyte imbalances probably due to the complications they develop and the medications they receive.