Chloride
Electrolytes marker
Chloride
Category: Electrolytes
Unit: mmol/L
Electrolyte that helps maintain fluid balance and acid-base status.
PED Notes
Generally stable on AAS. Can be affected by dehydration or excessive fluid intake. Follows sodium trends in most cases.
When high
Chloride closely follows sodium trends. Management mirrors sodium:
- When high: Usually accompanies dehydration. Increase fluid intake
- Isolated chloride abnormalities are rare; if present, investigate acid-base disorders
When low
Chloride closely follows sodium trends. Management mirrors sodium:
- When low: Usually accompanies low sodium (dilutional from over-hydration or diuretic use). Correct the underlying sodium imbalance and ensure adequate salt intake
- Isolated chloride abnormalities are rare; if present, investigate acid-base disorders (low chloride with high bicarbonate suggests metabolic alkalosis)
Educational information, not medical advice. Nothing here is a prescription or a treatment plan, and it does not account for your history, medications or conditions. Use it to ask better questions: bring it to your doctor and decide together. Full disclaimer.
History Chart
Reading History
Frequently Asked Questions
Reference Ranges
Standard Range
95 - 110 mmol/L