ELECTROLYTE DYNAMICS IN COVID-19: UNRAVELING BIOCHEMICAL CHANGES IN KHARTOUM STATE

Authors: Sarah Ahmed Abdelrahman, Mohamed Ali Elhassan, Hala Mohammed Mustafa

Published: March 2024

Abstract

<p>Coronaviruses, named for their distinctive halo or crown-like appearance, are a family of enveloped, positive-sense single-stranded RNA viruses with zoonotic origins. This study delves into the unique characteristics of coronaviruses, focusing on COVID-19, their zoonotic nature, and the associated implications for transmission and quarantine measures. Additionally, it explores the intricate relationship between coronavirus infection and electrolyte imbalances, particularly hyponatremia and hypernatremia, emphasizing their neurological manifestations and the underlying physiological mechanisms.</p> <p>The emergence of COVID-19 in Wuhan, China, initially linked to a seafood market, underscores the zoonotic potential of coronaviruses. Infection spreads primarily through respiratory droplets and close personal contact, prompting global health responses, including quarantine measures for exposed individuals. Understanding the modes of transmission is vital for effective public health strategies.</p> <p>Electrolytes, crucial for homeostasis, conduct electrical currents in body fluids. Hyponatremia, marked by low serum sodium levels, presents with neurological symptoms such as headaches and confusion. Conversely, hypernatremia, characterized by elevated serum sodium levels, manifests through signs like tachypnea and agitation. The study explores the neurological implications of these electrolyte imbalances in the context of coronavirus infections.</p> <p>The virus's impact on the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system further complicates the electrolyte balance. COVID-19's entry into cells reduces ACE2, leading to increased aldosterone production and potassium loss through urine. This mechanistic insight sheds light on the multifaceted consequences of coronavirus infections on physiological processes, particularly electrolyte regulation.</p> <p>This comprehensive exploration contributes to a deeper understanding of the complex interactions between coronaviruses and host physiology. Recognizing and addressing the neurological manifestations of electrolyte imbalances in COVID-19 patients is imperative for optimizing clinical management. The findings presented here bridge virology and clinical care, providing valuable insights for healthcare professionals grappling with the intricate nuances of coronavirus infections.</p>

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