Electrolytes and Common Lab Tests Explained
Sodium, calcium and anion gap in plain language.
Why tests are ordered
Electrolyte panels show hydration, kidney function and acid-base balance. Abnormal results may reflect illness, medicines or diet.
Corrections
Low albumin lowers measured calcium, and high glucose dilutes sodium, so labs sometimes use corrected values to interpret them.
What to do
Ask your clinician what an abnormal value means for you. Do not self-treat based on one result.
Try it: Anion Gap Calculator
Example with sample values. Open the full calculator →
Anion gap13 mmol/L
Albumin-corrected15 mmol/L
A normal gap is about 8–12 mmol/L. A high gap points to causes such as ketoacidosis, lactic acidosis or kidney failure.
Educational content only. This article does not replace advice from a qualified health professional. Medical disclaimer.