A chloride blood test measures the level of chloride in the blood. Chloride is an electrolyte that helps balance fluids in the body and helps with the proper functioning of muscles and nerves. It is an important component of gastric acid and is involved in the digestion and absorption of nutrients.
Normal levels of chloride in the blood vary depending on a person's age and sex, but generally fall within the range of 96 to 106 milliequivalents per liter (mEq/L). Abnormal levels of chloride may indicate a variety of medical conditions, including kidney or liver problems, dehydration, or an electrolyte imbalance.
A chloride blood test is often ordered along with other electrolyte tests as part of a comprehensive metabolic panel or a complete blood count.
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