Blood Sodium Levels |
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The normal range for blood sodium levels is 135 to 145 mill equivalents per
liter (mEq/L). |
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Low Sodium (Ref. The Merck
Manual of Health Aging) |
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Hyponatremia: A low sodium level (hyponatremia) may result from not consuming enough sodium
in the diet, excreting too much (in sweat or urine), or being over hydrated. |
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Having a low sodium level can cause confusion, drowsiness, muscle weakness, and
sometimes seizures. A more rapid fall in the sodium level often causes more severe
symptoms than a slow fall. A low sodium level is restored to a normal level by gradually
and steadily giving sodium and water intravenously. |
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High Sodium (Ref. The Merck
Manual of Health Aging) |
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Hypernatremia: A high sodium level (hypernatremia) is usually caused
by dehydration or use of diuretics. |
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Typically, thirst is the first symptom. A person with a high sodium level may become
weak and feel sluggish. A very high sodium level can cause confusion, paralysis,
coma, and seizures. |
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If the sodium level is slightly high, drinking fluids can lower it. Once the body's
fluids are replaced, the high level of sodium returns to a normal level. |
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