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Hyponatremia


About this topic


A low level of sodium in the blood is hyponatremia. Sodium is a mineral that helps keep the right amount of water in and around your cells. It is one of the most important minerals as well. It helps your body: ‚  
  • Keep blood pressure normal
  • Keep nerves and muscles working the right way
  • Control the normal flow of nutrients between body fluids and cells

Your doctor will work to treat any hidden cause. You may need to have drugs help raise the sodium in your blood. You may be in the hospital until your levels are back to normal. ‚  

What are the causes?


The body keeps a balance of sodium in the blood. The sodium taken into the body is matched by how much is taken out of the body. This is controlled by the kidneys and some hormones. Low sodium levels happen when your body holds on to too much water. ‚  
Some health problems or treatments can cause your sodium level to be low. These include: ‚  
  • Kidneys not able to get rid of fluids the right way
  • Heart failure
  • Serious illnesses like liver disease, cancer, or too much hormones
  • Certain drugs or supplements
  • Very bad pain
  • Thyroid problems
  • Drinking too much water to getting too much I.V. fluid
  • Poor diet
  • Blood loss
  • Loose stools or throwing up

What are the main signs?


People who have a low blood sodium may have some signs or they may have none at all. You may notice: ‚  
  • Upset stomach and throwing up
  • Confusion
  • Not knowing where you are
  • Feeling tired
  • Headache
  • Restlessness and irritability
  • Cramping or weakness of the muscles
  • Seizures
  • Loss of conscious
  • Coma

How does the doctor diagnose this health problem?


  • Your doctor will take your history. Talk to your doctor about:
    • All the drugs you are taking. Be sure to include all prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, and herbal supplements. Tell the doctor about any drug allergy. Bring a list of drugs you take with you.
    • Your exercise routine
  • Your doctor will do an exam and may order:
    • Lab tests

How does the doctor treat this health problem?


Treatment depends on the cause. There may be limits to the amount of water and other fluids you can drink. In very bad cases, salt may be given to raise the levels in the body. ‚  

What drugs may be needed?


The doctor may order drugs to: ‚  
  • Raise the sodium levels in your blood
  • Change certain hormone levels in your body
  • Treat the cause of your low sodium

Where can I learn more?


American Academy of Family Physicians ‚  
http://www.aafp.org/afp/2004/0515/p2387.html ‚  
Better Health Channel ‚  
http://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/bhcv2/bhcarticles.nsf/pages/Salt ‚  

Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer


This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚  

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