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Ions
Cations; Anions
An ion is an atom or group of atoms that has an electric charge. Ions with a positive charge are called cations. Ions with a negative charge are called anions.
Many normal substances exist in the body as ions. Common examples include sodium, potassium, calcium, chloride, and bicarbonate. These substances are known as electrolytes .
Electrolytes
Electrolytes are minerals in your blood and other body fluids that carry an electric charge. Electrolytes affect how your body functions in many ways...
Ions can be created using radiation such as x-rays. Ionizing radiation is often used to diagnose or treat a medical condition.
References
Blaustein MP, Kao JPY, Matteson DR. Electrical consequences of ionic gradients. In: Blaustein MP, Kao JPY, Matteson DR, eds. Cellular Physiology and Neurophysiology . 2nd ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier Mosby; 2012:chap 4.
Review Date: 8/14/2015
Reviewed By: Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Medical Director and Director of Didactic Curriculum, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, Department of Family Medicine, UW Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Isla Ogilvie, PhD, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.
