Description
Hyponatremia is a disease of the Whole Body.
The condition in which the level of Sodium drops down below the normal, is called Hyponatremia.
The normal range of Sodium in the body is 135 to 145 mEq/L (milliequivalents per liter ). Hyponatremia arises when the sodium level falls below 135 mEq/L.
Sodium is an important electrolyte that plays a number of functions in the body.
Functions of Sodium
Maintains the Blood Pressure
Supports the functions of Tissues, Muscles and Nerves
Regulates the fluids in and around the cells
Types of Hyponatremia
Euvolemic Hyponatremia : When the level of water in the body is too much, but the Sodium level remains the same.
Hypervolemic Hyponatremia : When the levels of both Water and Sodium are high, but the levels of Water is more as compared to Sodium.
Hypovolemic Hyponatremia : In this there is a drop in the levels of Water and Sodium, But the Sodium lost is more as compared to Water.
If the level of Sodium drops down, it interrupts the body functions and may cause Muscle weakness and Unconsciousness.
Causes Of Hyponatremia
Medications
Liver cirrhosis
Overdehydration
Heart Problems
Chronic Vomiting
Chronic Diarrhea
Kidney Problems
Hormonal Imbalance
Drinking Too much Water
Diuretic medicines, which increase urine output
Syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion (SIADH)
Overdehydration is one of the main cause for Hyponatremia. It is dealt separately on this portal.
If not treated properly, Hyponatremia may cause
Coma
Death
Hallucinations
Swelling of Brain