Abstract:
Diabetic Nephropathy (DN), a severe complication of Diabetes Mellitus, often
leads to electrolyte imbalances due to altered renal function, insulin insufficiency,
and disrupted hormonal regulation. This cross-sectional study was conducted at
the National Hospital Galle to investigate the prevalence and associated factors of
serum electrolyte disturbances specifically sodium, potassium, and chloride among
259 patients with DN. Data was collected through pre-tested questionnaire, medical
records, and laboratory tests, focusing demographic details, clinical features,
lifestyle, and dietary habits. Chi-square test was used to check whether there
was a significant difference in the frequency of electrolyte disturbances between
the groups. The study found a high prevalence of hyponatremia (54.8%), hyperkalemia
(45.2%), and hyperchloremia (64.5%) among DN patients. Despite
assessing various demographic (age, sex, marital status, residence), clinical (diabetes
duration, BMI, diabetic complications), and lifestyle (smoking, alcohol use)
factors, no statistically significant associations were observed with serum electrolyte
levels, except a weak association between BMI and chloride levels (Pearson
Chi-Square = 5881.477, p< 0.05). Notably, dietary patterns emerged as potential
influencers, as white rice (Chi-Square= 43.7, p < 0.05) and fruits (Chi-Square=
151.325, p < 0.05) with chloride level and bakery food consumption with potassium
levels (Pearson Chi-Square = 47.6, p < 0.05) showed notable associations.
These results highlighted that while demographic and most clinical or lifestyle
factors may not significantly affect electrolyte balance in DN patients, dietary
habits could contribute to electrolyte disturbances in DN patients, especially in
potassium and chloride regulation. The findings emphasize the importance of
comprehensive clinical monitoring and dietary guidance in the management of
DN patients to prevent complications arising from unrecognized or untreated electrolyte
disturbances.
