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Hyponatremia is a metabolic condition in which there is not enough sodium (salt) in the body fluids outside the cells.
Alternative NamesDilutional hyponatremia; Euvolemic hyponatremia; Hypervolemic hyponatremia; Hypovolemic hyponatremia
Causes, incidence, and risk factorsSodium is found mostly in body fluids outside the cells. It is very important for maintaining blood pressure. Sodium is also needed for nerves and muscles to work properly.
When the amount of sodium in fluids outside cells drops, water moves into the cells to balance the levels. This causes the cells to swell with too much water. Although most cells can handle this swelling, brain cells cannot, because the skull bones confine them. Brain swelling causes most of the symptoms of hyponatremia.
In hyponatremia, the imbalance of water to salt is caused by one of three conditions:
- Euvolemic hyponatremia -- total body water increases, but the sodium content remains the same
- Hypervolemic hyponatremia -- both sodium and water content in the body increase, but water gain is greater
- Hypovolemic hyponatremia -- water and sodium are both lost from the body, but the sodium loss is greater
Hyponatremia is the most common electrolyte disorder in the United States.
Causes of hyponatremia include:
- Burns
- Congestive heart failure
- Diarrhea
- Use of medications called diuretics, which increase urine output
- Kidney diseases
- Liver cirrhosis
- Syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion (SIADH)
- Sweating
- Vomiting
Common symptoms include:
- Abnormal mental status
- Confusion
- Decreased consciousness
- Hallucinations
- Possible coma
- Convulsions
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Irritability
- Loss of appetite
- Muscle spasmsor cramps
- Muscle weakness
- Nausea
- Restlessness
- Vomiting
The health care provider will perform a complete physical examination to help determine the cause of your symptoms. Blood and urine tests will be done.
The following laboratory tests can confirm hyponatremia:
- Osmolalityblood test
- Sodium blood test
- Urine osmolality
- Urine sodium
The cause of hyponatremia must be diagnosed and treated. In some cases, cancer may cause the condition, and radiation, chemotherapy, or surgery to remove the tumor may correct the sodium imbalance.
Other treatments depend on the specific type of hyponatremia.
Treatments may include:
- Fluids through a vein (IV)
- Medication to relieve symptoms
- Water restriction
The outcome depends on the condition that is causing the problem. In general, acute hyponatremia, which occurs in less than 48 hours, is more dangerous. When sodium levels fall slowly over a period of days or weeks (chronic hyponatremia), the brain cells have time to adjust and swelling is minimal.
Complications- Brain herniation
- Death
- Possible coma
Hyponatremia can be a life-threatening emergency. Call your health care provider if you have symptoms of this condition.
PreventionTreating the condition that is causing hyponatremia can help. If you play any demanding sports, drink fluids that contain electrolytes ("sports drinks"). Drinking only water while you take part in high-energy athletic events can lead to acute hyponatremia.
ReferencesSkorecki K, Ausiello D. Disorders of sodium and water homeostasis. In: Goldman L, Ausiello D, eds. Cecil Medicine. 23rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2007:chap 117.
What else can I help you with?
Can alcohol cause low sodium levels in a blood test?
Yes, excessive alcohol consumption can lead to low sodium levels in a blood test. Alcohol can affect the body's ability to regulate sodium levels, leading to a condition known as hyponatremia. It is important to drink alcohol in moderation to avoid disrupting the body's electrolyte balance.
Is sodium deficiency common?
Sodium deficiency, also known as hyponatremia, is less common than excess sodium intake but can occur in certain situations such as excessive sweating, diarrhea, or certain medical conditions. It is more common in older adults and those with chronic illnesses. Symptoms of sodium deficiency can range from mild to severe and should be promptly addressed by a healthcare provider.
Difference between osmotic diuresis and water diuresis?
Osmotic Diuresis Water diuresis *High amount of H2O reabsoebed in *Normal absorption. PCT. *A lot of solutes are lost. *loss of solute amount is less. *Very high amounts of urine are *Amounts of urine produced are less produced. than that in osmotic diuresis. *Low medullary osmolality. *High medullary osmolality. *Normal *The limiting concentration gradient *The limiting gradient is not reached. for Na is reached at PCT. *Hyponatremia may occur. *Takes more time to get hyponatremia.
What happens in Sodium deficiency?
Sodium deficiency, known as hyponatremia, occurs when there is an imbalance of sodium levels in the blood. This can lead to symptoms such as lethargy, confusion, seizures, muscle cramps, and in severe cases, can be life-threatening. It is important to address the underlying cause of sodium deficiency and seek medical treatment if symptoms appear.
Does low sodium cause fatigue?
Yes, low sodium levels (hyponatremia) can lead to fatigue and weakness. Sodium plays a crucial role in maintaining fluid balance in the body, and when levels are low, it can disrupt normal cellular function and energy production, leading to symptoms like tiredness and exhaustion. It is important to address the underlying cause of low sodium and seek medical advice if experiencing persistent fatigue.
What ICD-9 code is for hyponatremia?
276.1 is the ICD9 code for hyponatremia. Hyponatremia means low blood sodium levels.
What is the scientific term for water intoxication?
It is called hyponatremia. It is called hyponatremia.
How can hyponatremia be prevented?
Patients who take diuretic medications must be checked regularly for the development of hyponatremia.
How do you spell hyponatremia?
That is the correct spelling of the medical term "hyponatremia" (salt depletion).
Does a gastroenterologist treat hyponatremia?
If you have hyponatremia, start with your primary care provider. The initial testing that your PCP can do will direct you appropriately to the right specialist. There is no one specialist who treats hyponatremia; instead, you have to narrow the possible causes.
Does losartan causes hyponatremia?
Hyperkalemia, hyponatremia have been reported with losartan. This is listed in the adverse effects of losartan by Merck the manufacturers
Is nausea a symptom of hyponatremia?
Yes
Is muscle weakness a symptom of hyponatremia?
Yes
Is slowed breathing a symptom of hyponatremia?
Yes
How is hyponatremia diagnosed?
Hyponatremia is diagnosed by acquiring a blood sample, preparing plasma, and using a sodium-sensitive electrode for measuring the concentration of sodium ions.
Causes of hyponatremia?
The causes of hyponatremia can include dehydration. Imbibing too much water, certain medications like diuretics, kidney diseases, congestive heart failure, and excessive diarrhea or vomiting. Hyponatremia is a condition in which the body has a very low level of sodium.
How does drinking excess water cause hyponatremia?
Drinking excess water sometimes causes hyponatremia, because the absorption of water into the bloodstream can dilute the sodium in the blood.
