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Hyponatremia

Decrease in serum sodium below 135 mEq/L.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Dahiliye (İç Hastalıkları) department. Book Appointment →

What is Hyponatremia?

Hyponatremia is a decrease in serum sodium below 135 mEq/L and is the most common electrolyte disorder, seen in 15-20% of hospitalized patients. Acutely developing hyponatremia can cause cerebral edema and neurological emergencies, while chronic hyponatremia is associated with falls, attention disorders, and osteoporosis.

For etiologic classification, serum osmolality, volume status, and urinary sodium are evaluated. SIADH (syndrome of inappropriate ADH secretion), heart failure, cirrhosis, kidney failure, and diuretic use are the main causes.

The rate of sodium correction is critical in treatment: too rapid correction can lead to 'osmotic demyelination syndrome.'

Symptoms

Headache, nausea, and vomiting
Weakness and fatigue
Muscle cramps and weakness
Confusion and attention disorder
Balance disorder and falls
Lethargy and drowsiness
Seizures and coma (in severe cases)

Risk Factors

Thiazide diuretic use
Heart failure and liver cirrhosis
SSRI and antidepressant use
Small cell lung cancer (SIADH)
Central nervous system diseases
Excessive fluid intake (primary polydipsia)
Elderly and female patients

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Severe headache, nausea, and confusion
  • Seizure or change in consciousness (emergency)
  • New symptoms developing on diuretic therapy
  • Recurrent falls and balance disorder
  • If excessive water-drinking behavior is noted

Treatment Methods

01
Treatment directed at the underlying cause
02
Controlled correction with hypertonic saline (3% NaCl) in acute symptomatic cases
03
Correction rate: maximum 8-10 mEq/L in 24 hours
04
Fluid restriction (euglycemic hyponatremia and SIADH)
05
Vaptans (tolvaptan) — in SIADH and heart failure
06
Avoidance of osmotic demyelination and close monitoring

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Dahiliye (İç Hastalıkları) department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Dahiliye (İç Hastalıkları) Department

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.