Exercise-Induced Renal and Electrolyte Changes

In brief

The metabolic stress of exercise brief can impair the kidneys' ability to maintain volume and electrolyte homeostasis. Minor abnormalities in renal function and plasma electrolyte composition, such as hypovolemia, electrolyte loss, hyperkalemia, and lactic acidosis, may result. In addition, direct and hormonal effects of exercise on the kidneys can lead to proteinuria or hematuria. Rarely, the effects of exercise on the kidneys can be life-threatening, as with heatstroke or rhabdomyolysis. Optimal care not only includes expedient diagnosis and treatment, but also educating the patient about adequate hydration and other preventive measures.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Steven Fishbane

Dr Fishbane is the associate director of the Division of Nephrology at Winthrop University Hospital in Mineola, New York, and an associate professor in the Department of Medicine at State University of New York at Stony Brook.