Abstract
Background: Stroke is a leading cause of disability, often resulting in motor and neurological impairments. Electrolyte disturbances, particularly in sodium, potassium, and calcium, may influence stroke severity and outcomes. This study aimed to evaluate the association between serum electrolyte levels and functional outcomes in ischemic stroke patients. Methods: A prospective study was conducted over one year at a tertiary care hospital including 168 adult ischemic stroke patients. Stroke severity and motor function were assessed using NIHSS and MAS scores. Serum sodium, potassium, and calcium levels were measured at admission. The primary outcome was death or major disability at 3 months (mRS 3–6). Results: Patients with death or major disability were older (74.2 vs. 66.5 years) and had higher NIHSS scores (median 6 vs. 3) and lower MAS scores (median 15 vs. 20). Abnormal calcium levels were significantly associated with adverse outcomes (p = 0.01), while sodium and potassium showed no significant correlation (p = 0.12 and 0.43). Conclusion: Calcium disturbances are linked to worse functional outcomes in ischemic stroke. Monitoring and correcting calcium levels may help improve prognosis.