Hyponatremia
Hyponatremia is when the amount of salt (sodium) in your blood is too low. When sodium levels are low, your cells absorb extra water and swell. The swelling happens throughout the body, but it mostly affects the brain. Severe brain swelling (cerebral edema), seizures, or coma can happen as a result.
CAUSES
This condition may be caused by:
• Heart, kidney, or liver problems.
• Thyroid problems.
• Adrenal gland problems.
• Metabolic conditions, such as Syndrome of Inappropriate Antidiuretic Hormone (SIADH).
• Severe vomiting and diarrhea.
• Certain medicines or illegal drugs.
• Dehydration.
• Drinking too much water.
• Eating a diet that is low in sodium.
• Large burns on your body.
• Sweating. …show more content…
• Agitation.
• Headache.
• Twitching or shaking (seizures).
• Unconsciousness.
• Appetite loss.
• Muscle weakness and cramping.
DIAGNOSIS
This condition is diagnosed with a medical history and physical exam. You may also have other tests, including:
• Blood tests.
• Urine tests.
TREATMENT
Treatment for this condition depends on the cause. Treatment may include:
• Fluids given through the vein (IV).
• Medicines to correct the sodium imbalance. If medicines are causing the condition, the medicines will need to be adjusted.
• Limiting water or fluid intake to get the correct sodium balance.
HOME CARE INSTRUCTIONS
• Take medicines only as directed by your health care provider. Many medicines can make this condition worse. Discuss any medicines you are currently taking with your health care provider.
• Carefully follow any recommended diet, including any fluid restrictions.
• Keep all follow-up visits as directed by your health care provider. This is important.
• Do not drink alcohol.
SEEK MEDICAL CARE IF:
• You develop worsening nausea, fatigue, headache, confusion, or weakness.
• Your symptoms go away and then return.
• You have problems following the recommended
Hyponatremia is when the amount of salt (sodium) in your blood is too low. When sodium levels are low, your cells absorb extra water and swell. The swelling happens throughout the body, but it mostly affects the brain. Severe brain swelling (cerebral edema), seizures, or coma can happen as a result.
CAUSES
This condition may be caused by:
• Heart, kidney, or liver problems.
• Thyroid problems.
• Adrenal gland problems.
• Metabolic conditions, such as Syndrome of Inappropriate Antidiuretic Hormone (SIADH).
• Severe vomiting and diarrhea.
• Certain medicines or illegal drugs.
• Dehydration.
• Drinking too much water.
• Eating a diet that is low in sodium.
• Large burns on your body.
• Sweating. …show more content…
• Agitation.
• Headache.
• Twitching or shaking (seizures).
• Unconsciousness.
• Appetite loss.
• Muscle weakness and cramping.
DIAGNOSIS
This condition is diagnosed with a medical history and physical exam. You may also have other tests, including:
• Blood tests.
• Urine tests.
TREATMENT
Treatment for this condition depends on the cause. Treatment may include:
• Fluids given through the vein (IV).
• Medicines to correct the sodium imbalance. If medicines are causing the condition, the medicines will need to be adjusted.
• Limiting water or fluid intake to get the correct sodium balance.
HOME CARE INSTRUCTIONS
• Take medicines only as directed by your health care provider. Many medicines can make this condition worse. Discuss any medicines you are currently taking with your health care provider.
• Carefully follow any recommended diet, including any fluid restrictions.
• Keep all follow-up visits as directed by your health care provider. This is important.
• Do not drink alcohol.
SEEK MEDICAL CARE IF:
• You develop worsening nausea, fatigue, headache, confusion, or weakness.
• Your symptoms go away and then return.
• You have problems following the recommended