What is the effect of chronic kidney disease on electrolyte balance?

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) significantly impacts electrolyte balance in the body, primarily due to the kidneys' crucial role in excreting waste products and maintaining homeostasis of electrolytes. In CKD, the kidneys' ability to filter and excrete potassium is diminished, leading to an accumulation of potassium in the bloodstream, a condition known as hyperkalemia.

This condition arises because the kidneys cannot eliminate excess potassium effectively, which can cause serious cardiac and muscular complications if not managed appropriately. Therefore, hyperkalemia is a common and critical consequence of CKD, making it the correct answer to this question.

In contrast, other choices imply improvements in electrolyte balance or stabilization, which do not occur in CKD. The disease typically disrupts the normal regulatory mechanisms, leading to imbalances rather than improvements or stabilization.