Here are some common reasons why electrolyte balance can be temporarily skewed:  Dehydration — not drinking water consistently or getting enough fluids Excess sweating — either as an acute response (to heat or movement) or as a chronic condition  Malnutrition — not getting a consistent intake of essential nutrients or getting some in excess while getting low amounts of others Drinking alcohol — your body excretes water and electrolytes in response to alcohol Chronic health conditions — including thyroid disease, kidney disease, adrenal gland disorders, or cancer Vomiting or diarrhea — as a response to infections, medications, food poisoning, GI distress, pregnancy, medical treatments, stress, motion sickness, smells, or concussion  Eating disorder — conditions like anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa affect electrolyte balance  Burns — the skin helps protect against fluid and electrolyte loss, so injuries to the skin can result in an electrolyte imbalance, especially severe burns  Drinking too much water — can cause an electrolyte imbalance known as hyponatremia or water intoxication Taking diuretics — if you’re prescribed diuretics to reduce fluid buildup, your doctor will likely test your electrolyte levels regularly, as these medications can disrupt their balance