what is cl in blood test

CL in a blood test stands for chloride, which is an electrolyte measured in your blood. Chloride helps maintain the balance of fluids and acid-base (pH) balance in your body. It works along with other electrolytes like sodium and potassium to ensure proper muscle, heart, and nerve functions as well as normal fluid absorption and excretion. The chloride blood test measures the level of chloride to help diagnose or monitor conditions that affect the body’s fluid or acid-base balance. Some of these conditions include dehydration, kidney disease, heart failure, liver disease, and high blood pressure. Normal chloride levels in the blood typically range from about 96 to 106 milliequivalents per liter (mEq/L). Levels above this range indicate hyperchloremia (too much chloride), and levels below indicate hypochloremia (too little chloride). Abnormal chloride levels can result from various causes such as dehydration, kidney problems, metabolic or respiratory imbalances, and certain medications. In summary, the CL test in your blood panel refers to the chloride electrolyte test, which is crucial for maintaining fluid balance and acid-base homeostasis in the body. Your healthcare provider uses this test to assess and manage underlying health conditions related to electrolyte imbalances.