Electrolytes Status in Acute Stroke Patient in Rajshahi Medical College Hospital

Abstract

Background: Stroke is a major cause of mortality and morbidity worldwide, significantly impacting patients and healthcare systems. Electrolyte imbalances are common in acute stroke patients and can influence clinical outcomes. This study investigates the electrolyte status in acute stroke patients admitted to Rajshahi Medical College Hospital Objective: To evaluate the electrolyte status (sodium and potassium levels) in acute stroke patients and its association with stroke types (Ischaemic and haemorrhagic) and clinical outcomes. Method: A cross-sectional study was conducted over two years (July 2017 to June 2019) in the Medicine and Neuromedicine Department of Rajshahi Medical College Hospital. A total of 104 acute stroke patients were included. Serum sodium and potassium levels were measured upon admission. Sociodemographic data, stroke types, and electrolyte levels were analyzed. Results: Among the 104 stroke patients, 71 (68.27%) had ischaemic stroke, and 33 (31.73%) had haemorrhagic stroke. The age distribution was highest in the 50-60 years group (34.62%). Males comprised 58.65% of the patients. Sodium levels were normal in 61.54% of patients, high in 2.88%, and low in 35.58%. Potassium levels were normal in 68.27% of patients, high in 10.58%, and low in 21.15%. No significant difference was found in sodium (p>0.05) and potassium (p>0.05) levels between ischaemic and haemorrhagic stroke patients. Conclusions: Electrolyte imbalances are prevalent in acute stroke patients, but no significant differences were observed between ischaemic and haemorrhagic stroke types. Regular monitoring and correction of electrolytes are crucial in managing stroke patients to improve outcomes.