What happens if sodium is too low

Share on: Facebook Twitter. Show references Jameson JL, et al. Hyponatremia and hypernatremia. In: Endocrinology: Adult and Pediatric. Philadelphia, Pa. Accessed April 6, Bope ET, et al. In: Conn's Current Therapy Merck Manual Professional Version. Kengne FG, et al. Hyponatremia and the brain. Kidney International Reports. National Kidney Foundation. Nippoldt TB expert opinion. The pain may be the only sign of the need for surgery Syndrome of inappropriate secretion of antidiuretic hormone Syndrome of Inappropriate Secretion of Antidiuretic Hormone SIADH The syndrome of inappropriate secretion of antidiuretic hormone develops when too much antidiuretic hormone vasopressin is released by the pituitary gland under certain inappropriate conditions The brain is particularly sensitive to changes in the sodium level in blood.

Therefore, symptoms of brain dysfunction, such as sluggishness lethargy and confusion, occur first. If the sodium level in blood falls quickly, symptoms tend to develop rapidly and be more severe. Older people are more likely to have severe symptoms. As hyponatremia becomes more severe, muscle twitching and seizures may occur. People may become unresponsive, aroused only by vigorous stimulation stupor , and eventually cannot be aroused coma.

Death may follow. Hyponatremia is diagnosed by measuring the sodium level in blood. Determining the cause is more complex. Blood and urine tests are done to evaluate the amount of fluid in the body, the concentration of blood, and content of urine. Mild hyponatremia can be treated by restricting fluid intake to less than 1 quart about 1 liter per day. If a diuretic or other drug is the cause, the dose is reduced or the drug is stopped.

If the cause is a disorder, it is treated. Occasionally, people are given a sodium solution intravenously, a diuretic to increase excretion of fluid, or both, usually slowly, over several days. These treatments can correct the sodium level. Some people, especially those with the syndrome of inappropriate secretion of antidiuretic hormone Syndrome of Inappropriate Secretion of Antidiuretic Hormone SIADH The syndrome of inappropriate secretion of antidiuretic hormone develops when too much antidiuretic hormone vasopressin is released by the pituitary gland under certain inappropriate conditions Fluid restriction alone is often not enough to prevent recurrence of hyponatremia.

Salt tablets can be used in people with mild to moderate chronic hyponatremia. Depending on the cause of hyponatremia and the amount of fluid in the person' body, several drugs are available for treatment. Severe hyponatremia is an emergency. To treat it, doctors slowly increase the level of sodium in the blood with intravenous fluids and sometimes with a diuretic.

Newer drugs, called vaptans, are sometimes needed. Increasing the sodium level too rapidly can result in severe and often permanent brain damage. Merck and Co. From developing new therapies that treat and prevent disease to helping people in need, we are committed to improving health and well-being around the world.

The Manual was first published in as a service to the community. Learn more about our commitment to Global Medical Knowledge. Where the underlying cause of hyponatremia is a medical condition or hormonal disorder, people will usually need further treatment. For example, people with liver, kidney, or heart problems may receive medications or surgery. Kidney problems often require dialysis, and people with liver or heart conditions may need a transplant.

People with a thyroid disorder can typically manage their symptoms and prevent hyponatremia and other complications with medications and lifestyle changes. SIADH usually requires ongoing treatment to prevent hyponatremia. Individuals with the condition may need to restrict fluid intake, take salt tablets, or use medications. The outlook for people with low sodium levels depends on the severity of the condition and the underlying cause.

Acute hyponatremia, which develops quickly, is more severe than chronic cases, which have a longer onset time. In severe cases, hyponatremia can be fatal. To improve their outlook, people should be aware of the symptoms of hyponatremia and seek prompt medical attention if they experience any of them.

Those at risk of low sodium levels should be especially vigilant. Dark-colored urine and thirst are classic signs that someone is dehydrated. The simple solution is to drink more. But when dehydration occurs in the…. Gatorade contains electrolytes that rehydrate people after exercise, but it also contains sugar and artificial colors. Is Gatorade good or bad for…. High levels indicate hyperchloremia, while low levels…. Drinking too much water can lead to water intoxication, which can be fatal.