<unk> , or water-electrolyte imbalance, is an abnormality in the concentration of<unk> s in the body.<unk> s play a vital role in maintaining homeostasis in the body. They help to regulate heart and neurological function, fluid balance, oxygen delivery, acid–base balance and much more.<unk> s can develop by consuming too little or too much<unk>  as well as excreting too little or too much<unk> .<unk>  disturbances are involved in many disease processes, and are an important part of patient management in medicine. The causes, severity, treatment, and outcomes of these disturbances can differ greatly depending on the implicated<unk> . The most serious<unk>  disturbances involve abnormalities in the levels of sodium, potassium or calcium. Other<unk> s are less common and often occur in conjunction with major<unk>  changes. The kidney is the most important organ in maintaining appropriate fluid and<unk>  balance, but other factors such as hormonal changes and physiological stress play a role. Chronic laxative abuse or severe diarrhea or vomiting can lead to dehydration and<unk> . People suffering from malnutrition are at especially high risk for an<unk> . Severe<unk> s must be treated carefully as there are risks with overcorrecting too quickly, which can result in arrhythmias, brain herniation, or refeeding syndrome depending on the cause of imbalance.
Electrolyte imbalance
Epilepsy
Acid–base disorder
Central nervous system depression
Organ dysfunction
Muscle imbalance
Hypoxia 
Drug therapy problems