Definition and Causes
Hyponatremia refers to a low sodium level in the blood, typically below 135 mEq/L. Sodium is essential for maintaining fluid balance, nerve function, and muscle activity. Causes include excessive water intake, diuretics, heart failure, kidney disease, liver dysfunction, or syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion (SIADH).
Types of Hyponatremia
Hyponatremia is categorized into:
Hypovolemic: Sodium and water loss (e.g., due to vomiting, diarrhea).
Euvolemic: Normal body fluid but low sodium (e.g., SIADH).
Hypervolemic: Excess water diluting sodium (e.g., heart or kidney failure).
Understanding the type aids in determining the underlying cause.
Symptoms and Diagnosis
Symptoms range from mild (nausea, headache) to severe (confusion, seizures, coma). Diagnosis involves blood tests for sodium levels, osmolality, and urine sodium to identify the cause and severity.
Management
Treatment depends on severity and cause. Mild cases may require fluid restriction. Severe cases may need hypertonic saline infusion, but rapid correction is avoided to prevent osmotic demyelination syndrome. Addressing underlying conditions, such as heart or kidney issues, is crucial for long-term management.
Complications of Hyponatremia
If untreated, hyponatremia can lead to life-threatening complications like cerebral edema, brain herniation, and respiratory arrest. Chronic cases may cause long-term neurological deficits due to prolonged sodium imbalances.
Prevention
Preventive measures include monitoring sodium levels in at-risk individuals, avoiding excessive fluid intake, proper use of diuretics, and managing chronic conditions like heart and kidney disease. Educating patients about recognizing early symptoms can also prevent severe outcomes.
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