Hyponatriämien

Hyponatremia is a medical condition characterized by a lower than normal concentration of sodium in the blood. Sodium is an electrolyte that plays a crucial role in maintaining fluid balance and nerve function. When sodium levels drop too low, water can move into cells, causing them to swell.

The causes of hyponatremia are diverse and can include excessive fluid intake, certain medications such as diuretics, hormonal imbalances like SIADH (syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion), and conditions affecting the kidneys, heart, or liver. In some cases, severe vomiting or diarrhea can also lead to sodium loss.

Symptoms of hyponatremia vary depending on the severity and how quickly the sodium levels have dropped. Mild cases may be asymptomatic or present with subtle symptoms like nausea, headache, and fatigue. More severe or rapidly developing hyponatremia can lead to confusion, seizures, coma, and in extreme situations, can be life-threatening.

Diagnosis typically involves a blood test to measure sodium levels. Further investigations may be needed to identify the underlying cause. Treatment depends on the cause and severity of the hyponatremia. For mild cases, fluid restriction or adjusting medications may be sufficient. Severe cases require careful and gradual correction of sodium levels, often with intravenous fluids, to prevent complications like osmotic demyelination syndrome.