Definition
Hyponatremia is a metabolic condition in which there is not enough sodium in the body fluids outside the cells.
Alternative Names
Dilutional hyponatremia; Euvolemic hyponatremia; Hypervolemic hyponatremia; Hypovolemic hyponatremia
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
Sodium circulates in the 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 sodium levels drop in the fluids outside the cells, water will seep into the cells to balance the salt levels. The cells will swell as a result of the excess water. Although most cells can handle this swelling, brain cells cannot, because the skull confines 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:
- Euvolemic hyponatremia -- total body water increases, but the sodium content remains the same
- Hypervolemic hyponatremia -- both sodium and water content in the body increase, but water gain is greater
- Hypovolemic hyponatremia -- water and sodium are both lost from the body, but the sodium loss is greater
Hyponatremia is the most common electrolyte disorder in the United States.
Causes of hyponatremia include:
Symptoms
Signs and tests
The following laboratory tests can confirm hyponatremia:
A complete physical examination will also be done to find the cause of this condition. During this examination, your doctor may order other tests.
Treatment
The cause of hyponatremia must be treated, especially in the case of cancer where radiation, chemotherapy, or surgery to remove the tumor may correct the sodium imbalance. Other treatments depend on the type of hyponatremia.
Treatments to correct hyponatremia may include:
- Intravenous (IV) fluids
- Medication for symptoms such as seizures
- Oxygen through a mask or a breathing machine
- Water and salt restriction
