What is meq in medical terms?

MEQ stands for milliequivalents, which is a unit of measurement commonly used in medicine to describe the amount of an ion or compound present in a solution. It is used to express the chemical activity of a substance in a mixture, especially in the context of electrolytes like sodium, potassium, calcium, and magnesium.

MEQ is typically used to quantify the concentration of electrolytes in the blood, urine, and other bodily fluids. This measurement is important in assessing and monitoring electrolyte imbalances, such as hypernatremia (high sodium levels), hypokalemia (low potassium levels), hypercalcemia (high calcium levels), and hypomagnesemia (low magnesium levels).

Doctors and healthcare providers use MEQ values to guide treatment decisions and monitor patients with electrolyte imbalances, as these can have serious consequences for overall health and well-being. It is important to understand and interpret MEQ values accurately to ensure effective management of electrolyte disorders and prevent complications.