Roles of Electrolytes: Chloride and Bicarbonate

Chloride and bicarbonate ions are important anions in the human body.

Whereas chloride ion concentration in blood plasma is around 95 to 105 mEq/L, bicarbonate ions typically range from 22 to 26 mEq/L in arterial blood and 23 to 27 mEq/L in venous blood.

Chloride ions easily move across ECF and ICF through leakage channels and antiporters, maintaining anion balance in these compartments.

In red blood cells, chloride shifts involving bicarbonate ions help maintain plasma anion levels.

Chloride ions are also crucial in forming hydrochloric acid in the stomach.

Patients with chloride deficiency — hypochloremia — often show shallow respiration, muscle spasms, or tetany, typically due to overhydration or aldosterone deficiency.

Conversely, excess chloride — hyperchloremia — arising from dehydration or severe renal failure induces acidosis. It leads to lethargy and rapid and deep breathing in the patients.

Imbalances in bicarbonate levels impact the blood pH, causing acidosis or alkalosis.