Chloride is anelectrolyte, which is a mineral that carries an electrical charge when dissolved in water.
Chloride supports the balance of body fluids inside and outside your cells.
Factors such asvomiting,dehydration, or medical issues like kidney disease can affect chloride levels.
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This article describes chloride blood test uses, techniques, and results.
It includes everything you’re gonna wanna know about this test.
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What Is a Chloride Blood Test Used For?
A chloride blood test checks your chloride level.
It is typically performed as part of a general health evaluation.
Your intestines absorb chloride when you digest your food.
Any excess chloride is removed through your urine.
A medical problem can affect this process, making your chloride high or low.
Chloride works jointly with other electrolytes, such aspotassium,sodium, andcalcium.
It can also be done with otherblood tests, like a basic orcomprehensive metabolic panel.
Who Needs a Chloride Blood Test?
This may be linked to conditions that cause sodium losses or excess chloride levels.
It is important that you advise your healthcare provider about any medications that you are taking.
Do not stop or change your medications before the test unless your healthcare provider advises it.
If these tests require fasting, it will not affect the results of your chloride blood test.
The Chloride Blood Test Procedure
The procedure for a chloride blood test usually takes a few minutes.
During the test, you remain seated.
Some people feel nothing at all.
Risks
A chloride blood test does not involve any major health risks for most people.
Every lab has a different range for what is normal.
Your test results may vary depending on age, gender, health history, and other personal characteristics.
Normal chloride levels typically include the following ranges:
What Happens After a Chloride Blood Test?
After a chloride blood test, your blood sample is sent to a medical laboratory.
Your results are usually available within one or two days.
you could return to normal activities immediately after a chloride blood test unless you experience side effects like dizziness.
What Does a Low Chloride Level Mean?
Summary
A chloride blood test measures the level of chloride in your blood.
Normal chloride levels help maintain the proper balance of body fluids inside and outside your cells.
Results of a chloride blood test that show levels outside normal ranges are not always a cause for concern.
Your healthcare provider can determine what your results mean and whether you need more testing or treatment.
Columbia University Irving Medical Center, Columbia Doctors.Chloride (Cl) test.
Chan School of Public Health.Chloride.
PeaceHealth.Chloride (Cl) test.
University of Rochester Medical Center.Chloride.
Mount Sinai.Chloride test - blood.
