Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is a procedure, done under general anesthesia, in which small electric currents are passed through the brain, intentionally triggering a brief seizure. ECT seems to cause changes in brain chemistry that can quickly reverse symptoms of certain mental illnesses.
In binging and purging eating disorders such as Bulimia, an electrolyte imbalance may result from both excessive vomiting and use of saline or sodium phosphate enemas. When persons vomit regularly, as in Bulimia, stomach acid containing hydrogen ions and chloride ions are lost.
(Fluid & Electrolyte Imbalance) Fluid and electrolyte disorders refer to an imbalance in the mixture of water and salts (electrolytes) needed for normal body function. Necessary salts contain sodium, potassium, calcium, bicarbonate, and phosphate. All body parts--even hard bone -- are bathed in a precise blend of water and natural salts.