ABSTRACT

Background: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease [COPD] is characterized by progressive airflow limitation and tissue destruction that is not fully reversible. Acute exacerbations are often associated with electrolyte disorders caused by either as a result of the treatment or the disease process. The aim of the study was to determine the effect of electrolyte imbalance in Acute Exacerbation of COPD patients. Methodology: A Descriptive study was conducted in the Pulmonology Department, Pushpagiri Medical College Hospital over a period of 6 months from October 2022- March 2023. Sixty- three patients with AECOPD who satisfied both the inclusion and exclusion criteria were selected. Serum electrolytes were analyzed from the date of admission and routinely checked until discharge.Results: The study showed that COPD is significantly associated with electrolyte imbalance. Low levels of Serum sodium(133±4mEq/L) and potassium (3±0.7mEq/L) were found in subjects with AECOPD. HTN along with DM was the most common comorbidity among COPD patients. Majority of the patients with electrolyte imbalance were prescribed with corticosteroids. Confusion, headache along with fatigue were typically found in patients with hyponatremia, whereas muscle cramps was seen in hypokalemic patients. Conclusion: The study suggest that hyponatremia and hypokalemia are prevalent electrolyte abnormalities in AECOPD patients. Routine monitoring and early correction of serum electrolytes are necessary to provide improved outcome to the patients. Keywords: COPD; exacerbations; electrolyte imbalance; corticosteroids, hyponatremia; hypokalemia
Publication date: 01/07/2025

https://ijbpas.com/pdf/2025/July/MS_IJBPAS_2025_9216.pdf

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https://doi.org/10.31032/IJBPAS/2025/14.7.9216