Hyponatremia is a condition that occurs when the level of sodium in your blood is abnormally low. Sodium is an electrolyte, and it helps regulate the amount of water that's in and around your cells (Mayo Clinic, 2015). When a person runs a long distance their blood is sent to their legs creating less blood flow to other organs such as the kidneys. People who drink too much water while taking part in marathons, ultramarathons, triathlons and other long-distance, high-intensity activities are at an increased risk of hyponatremia (Mayo Clinic, 2015). Long-distance runners tend to over hydrate in fear of becoming dehydrated.
People who run a lot should only drink 8oz of fluid every 20 minutes during a competition. This will give the runner the fluids they need to keep them hydrated but not put them at risk. Once hyponatremia starts, it is best relax and discontinue fluids for a period of time. The body will then naturally get rid of fluid and increase urine production. The patient should also ingest some salt over six hours to help correct hyponatremia. The patient will also need oxygen to achieve the maximum O2 saturation to keep the brain from swelling. IV lock will likely be inserted due to the increased possibility of seizures. Hypertonic saline IV may be ordered to regulate the sodium level (Simon, 2015). Lithium, demeclocycline, and vaptans are not recommended for anyone with moderate hyponatremia (Simon, 2015). …show more content…
These interventions include following fluid recommendations like only drinking when thirsty, add salt to diet before running, not taking any NSAID’s for 24 hours before a competition (Simon,
People who run a lot should only drink 8oz of fluid every 20 minutes during a competition. This will give the runner the fluids they need to keep them hydrated but not put them at risk. Once hyponatremia starts, it is best relax and discontinue fluids for a period of time. The body will then naturally get rid of fluid and increase urine production. The patient should also ingest some salt over six hours to help correct hyponatremia. The patient will also need oxygen to achieve the maximum O2 saturation to keep the brain from swelling. IV lock will likely be inserted due to the increased possibility of seizures. Hypertonic saline IV may be ordered to regulate the sodium level (Simon, 2015). Lithium, demeclocycline, and vaptans are not recommended for anyone with moderate hyponatremia (Simon, 2015). …show more content…
These interventions include following fluid recommendations like only drinking when thirsty, add salt to diet before running, not taking any NSAID’s for 24 hours before a competition (Simon,