What is Chloride?
Chloride is a negatively charged ion that plays an essential role in the maintenance of the fluid balance, homeostasis of acid-base, and proper functioning of the muscles and nerves, with the collaboration of sodium, potassium, and bicarbonates. The body obtains the chloride mainly from dietary sources such as table salt. The excretion of the chloride is through urine, sweat, and feces. It also aids in hydrochloric acid production in the stomach, digestion, protection against harmful bacteria, and the buffering of the blood’s pH at 7.35 to 7.45.
A chloride test is conducted to measure the levels of chloride present within the bloodstream or urine. Abnormal levels of chloride can cause severe health conditions such as disruption of the fluid balance, and impairment of acid-base regulation.
How is the Test Performed?
The Chloride test is a part of the comprehensive metabolic panel and is conducted through the blood or urine.
Preparation
- Fasting is not required for the chloride test.
- Your healthcare provider may advise you to stop taking corticosteroids or diuretics as they interfere with the levels of chloride.
- Avoid taking high-salt content before the test.
Blood Collection
- A trained technician draws blood from your vein typically from the arm and is sent to the laboratory for analysis.
Urine Collection
- This method involves the collection of urine over 24 hours and is useful for the assessment of excretion through the kidneys.
What are the symptoms that prompt this test?
The Chloride test is suggested for patients experiencing the following symptoms indicating that the person is affected with an imbalance of electrolytes or other associated conditions.
Symptoms of High Chloride
- Extreme thirst
- Mouth dryness
- Edema
- High blood pressure
- Cramps
- Concentration difficulties
Symptoms of Low Chloride
- Nausea and vomiting
- Sweating excessively
- Frequent headaches without known reason
- Twitching of muscles
- Mood changes
What are Normal Ranges for This Test?
The levels of chloride vary according to sex, age, dietary intake, and various health factors. The generally accepted reference range is given below for both urine test and blood tests;
Blood Test
Neonates – 98 to 113 mEq/L
Children – 98 to 105 mEq/L
Adults – 96 to 106 mEq/L
Urine Test
Normal range – 110 to 250 mEq/day
**The reference ranges vary between laboratories and the methodology used. Individuals must consult their healthcare provider for the correct interpretation of the test results.**
What Happens if Test Results Show Abnormal Levels?
If Chloride levels come out to be in the abnormal range it suggests that the person is affected with the following disorders;
High Chloride Level
High levels of Chloride are a condition termed hyperchloremia and it indicates;
- Dehydration
- Kidney disorders
- Respiratory acidosis
- Metabolic acidosis
- Excessive intake of salt
Low Chloride Levels
Low chloride levels are referred to as hypochloremia and are indicative of the following conditions;
- Fluid loss due to vomiting or diarrhea
- Kidney disorders such as renal tubular acidosis
- Respiratory alkalosis
- Adrenal insufficiency possibly due to Addison’s disease
- Metabolic alkalosis
