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Lifespan’s A - Z Health Information Library |
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HyponatremiaDefinitionHyponatremia 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 CausesSodium 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:
Hyponatremia is the most common electrolyte disorder in the United States. Causes of hyponatremia include:
SymptomsCommon symptoms include:
Exams and TestsThe 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:
TreatmentThe 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:
Outlook (Prognosis)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. Possible Complications
When to Contact a Medical ProfessionalHyponatremia 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. Review Date: 8/3/2009
Reviewed By: David C. Dugdale, III, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc. The information provided herein should not be used during any
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