Hyponatremia Definition, Reason, Symptoms, Treatment & Prevention
Understanding
Hyponatremia is a condition that occurs when sodium levels in the blood are less than normal. Sodium is one of the electrolytes found in the body, which plays a role in regulating the amount of water in and around cells.
In hyponatremia, due to one factor or another, consuming excessive water when doing physical activities that involve endurance can cause sodium levels in the body to decrease. When this happens, the water content in the body increases and the body’s cells enlarge. Enlargement of these cells can cause various health problems, from mild to life-threatening.
Treatment for hyponatremia is aimed at overcoming the health conditions that trigger the disorder. Depending on the cause of hyponatremia, treatment can vary, from simply limiting the amount of water intake to administering drugs and intravenous fluids.
Symptom
Signs and symptoms of hyponatremia that sufferers generally complain about or appear can include:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Headache
- Confusion
- Decreased energy and feeling tired easily
- Anxiety
- Weakness, spasms, or cramps in the muscles
- seizures
- Coma
Reason
Sodium has an important role in the body. This includes maintaining normal blood pressure levels, supporting nerves and muscles, and regulating fluid balance in the body.
Normal sodium levels are 135-145 mEq/L. Hyponatremia occurs when sodium levels in the body are lower than 135 mEq/L.
There are many health conditions and lifestyle-related factors that can cause hyponatremia, including:
- Drugs. Certain types of medication, such as diuretic drugs, antidepressants, and some classes of pain medications, can cause an increase in urine production or more sweat than normal.
- Disorders of the heart, kidneys, and liver. Congestive heart disease and certain types of diseases that affect the kidneys or liver can cause a buildup of fluid in the body, which causes a reduced amount of sodium. Severe and prolonged diarrhea or vomiting. This condition can cause the body to experience a lack of fluids and electrolytes, one of which is sodium.
- Consuming excess water. Since sodium is also excreted from the body during sweating, consuming excess water during endurance activities such as marathons and triathlons can lower sodium levels in the blood.
- Dehydration. Consuming too little fluid can also cause health problems. When a person is dehydrated, the body loses fluids and electrolytes.
- Hormonal changes. The condition of adrenal insufficiency can affect the ability of the adrenal glands to produce hormones that can maintain the balance of sodium, potassium and water in the body. In addition, low thyroid hormone levels can also cause low sodium levels in the blood.
Several factors are associated with an increased risk of developing hyponatremia, including:
- Age. Older people have a variety of factors that contribute to hyponatremia. These factors include age-related changes, taking certain medications, and an increased likelihood of developing a chronic disease that can alter the balance of sodium in the body.
- Consumption of certain drugs. Several types of medication can increase a person’s chances of experiencing hyponatremia, such as diuretic drugs, antidepressants, and some classes of pain medications. In addition, the use of narcotic ecstasy is also associated with fatal hyponatremia.
- Conditions that reduce the excretion of water from the body. Several types of health conditions can increase the risk of developing hyponatremia, including kidney disease, syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone (SIADH), and heart failure.
- Intense physical activity. People who consume excess water while participating in marathons, triathlons, or other high-intensity activities may have a higher risk of developing hyponatremia.
Diagnosis
Determination of the diagnosis of hypernatremia can be determined from a detailed medical interview, physical examination, and certain investigations. To ensure low sodium levels, the doctor may ask the patient to undergo blood and urine tests.
Treatment
Treatment of hyponatremia is aimed at overcoming the underlying cause. If a person has moderate to chronic hyponatremia due to diet, diuretic medication, or consuming large amounts of water, the doctor may recommend limiting fluid intake. In addition, the doctor can also determine the appropriate diuretic dose to maintain sodium levels in the blood.
In severe and acute hyponatremia, more aggressive treatment is usually needed. Treatment options may include intravenous fluid transfusions containing sodium to increase sodium levels in the blood. Or the use of medication to treat signs and symptoms of hyponatremia, such as headaches, nausea, and seizures.
Prevention
Several things can be done to prevent hyponatremia, including:
- Treat conditions associated with hyponatremia. Several health conditions that contribute to hyponatremia require proper treatment. Conditions of adrenal gland insufficiency, for example, need to be treated in order to prevent a decrease in sodium levels in the blood.
- Educate yourself. Those who have health conditions that increase the risk of hyponatremia or are taking diuretic medication are advised to recognize the signs and symptoms of hyponatremia. Also, consult with your doctor about the various risks when taking certain types of drugs.
- Monitor water consumption during high-intensity activities. Athletes are advised to consume approximately as much fluid as they sweat. Thirst can be an indication of the amount of fluid needed.
- Consume water according to the recommended amount. Water intake is very important for health. It is also important to ensure that the amount of water intake for the body is sufficient.
Thirst and urine color are good indications of the amount of water needed. If a person doesn’t feel thirsty and the color of the urine is faint yellow, chances are that person is getting enough fluid intake.