Hyponatremia

Diagnosis

Low sodium levels, also known as hyponatremia, can have many possible causes. To determine the reason, your healthcare professional will begin by reviewing your medical history and performing a physical examination. This may include questions about your current medications, diet, and fluid intake.

Because the symptoms of hyponatremia can resemble those of other conditions, it cannot be diagnosed through a physical exam alone. To confirm the diagnosis, your healthcare team may order:

• Blood tests to measure sodium and other electrolyte levels.

• Urine tests to check how much sodium and water are being excreted by the kidneys.

These tests help determine whether the hyponatremia is due to fluid imbalance, medication effects, kidney problems, or other underlying conditions.

Treatment

Treatment for hyponatremia focuses on correcting the low sodium level and addressing its underlying cause. The approach depends on the severity and how quickly the condition has developed.

For moderate or chronic hyponatremia caused by diet, diuretic use, or excessive fluid intake, your healthcare provider may recommend:

• Temporarily reducing the amount of fluids you drink.

• Adjusting or stopping diuretic medications to help restore sodium balance.

In cases of severe or acute hyponatremia, more intensive treatment is required, often in a hospital setting. Treatment options may include:

• Intravenous fluids: A controlled sodium solution given through an IV to gradually raise sodium levels in the blood. Rapid correction must be avoided to prevent complications.

• Medications: Certain medicines may be used to manage symptoms such as headaches, nausea, and seizures, or to help control water balance in the body.

The goal of treatment is to restore sodium to safe levels while carefully monitoring the body’s fluid balance to prevent complications.