Chloride

Chloride anions balance the ions of sodium (sodium chloride) and hydrogen (hydrochloric acid). 

There are virtually no abnormalities in which chloride is directly elevated or diminished in the blood. Rather, observed changes in chloride reflect other abnormalities that have led to a change in measurable chloride anions.

Chloride levels may rise in the presence of:

  • Dehydration
  • Hyperventilation
  • Renal disease
  • Cushing's disease

Chloride levels may fall in the presence of:

  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Severe burns
  • Addison's disease
  • Some diuretics
  • Pregnancy

Normal Values*

Men 98-106 mmol/L
Women 98-106 mmol/L
Pregnancy 93-100 mmol/L

*These are general values taken from a variety of sources. The actual normal values may vary from lab to lab and from one type of testing protocol to another.

 

OB-GYN 101: Introductory Obstetrics & Gynecology
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