Fluid therapy and electrolytes

An adequate blood volume and normal hydration status are absolutely essential for maintenance of normal perfusion and oxygen delivery to vital organs and ensuring normal cellular, and thereby organ, function. Similarly, normal electrolyte concentrations are essential and major electrolyte imbalances cause life-threatening conditions that require immediate attention. Sodium (Na) is responsible for maintaining a normal plasma osmolarity. Severe hypo- or hypernatraemia can cause brain oedema or neuronal shrinkage, respectively, with detrimental neurological consequences. Potassium and calcium imbalances interfere with normal electrolyte gradients, nerve conduction and muscular contraction. Both can cause life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias or cardiac arrest. Magnesium (Mg) imbalances often perpetuate other electrolyte abnormalities but can also be responsible for primary abnormalities. Whereas systemically healthy horses have a remarkable capacity to self-regulate minor fluid and electrolyte imbalances, severely sick horses might need directed treatment to correct imbalances and prevent further derangements ...