Thirst, orthostatic hypotension, irregular heartbeat, heavy, labored breathing, and fatigue
Hypernatremia is especially dangerous for children and the elderly
Severe hypernatremia has a mortality rate of 40-60%
Hypernatremia occurs when there is a deficit of free water relative to sodium in the body, leading to an increase in serum sodium levels. This imbalance can be caused by inadequate water intake, excessive water loss (e.g., through sweating or increased urine output), or a combination of both. As a result, cells shrink due to dehydration, leading to symptoms such as confusion, weakness, and, in severe cases, neurological symptoms like seizures.
Nausea and vomiting in hypernatremia occur primarily due to hyperosmolarity, which leads to cellular dehydration and disruption of normal cellular functions. As the osmotic equilibrium is disturbed, the central nervous system can be affected, causing symptoms such as nausea. Additionally, the body may initiate a protective response to expel excess sodium and restore balance, further contributing to these gastrointestinal symptoms.
Hypernatremia can cause neurological damage due to shrinkage of brain cells
Severe hypernatremia, with serum sodium above 152 mM, can result in seizures and death
Mild water intoxication is usually corrected by drinking less than a quart of water a day for several days. Untreated water intoxication can be fatal, but this outcome is quite rare.
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