Electrolytes such as magnesium, calcium and phosphate are important to our health as they help prevent hypertension, heart rhythm fluctuation, and muscle weakness.
Researchers are finding that patients with traumatic brain injury are at risk for hypomagnesemia, hypokalemia and hypophosphatemia due to the loss of these valuable electrolytes. One of the primary causes of this loss is increased urination potentially due to th use of Mannitol.
Magnesium is necessary for a variety of enzyme reactions and it is needed to regulate both potassium and sodium transportation. Without it, there is a potential for hypocalcemia and cardiac arrhythmias that can lead to sudden death. Phosphate levels play a role in physiologic functions such as the maintenance of muscle tone. Low levels of phosphate have been linked to respiratory infection and decreased cardiac output which can lead to weakness, anorexia, bone pain and respiratory arrest.
To take care of yourself after a cranial injury, make sure to increase your P, K, Mg and Ca supplements. Taking care of the aspects of your health that you have direct control over will go a long way to making recuperation that much quicker!
For a detailed study, click here.