Hyponatremia
Our hyponatremia specialists in New York are here for you. Our team of endocrine doctors near you are dedicated to supporting your success and ensuring that you regain your metabolic health and overall wellness.
What Is Hyponatremia?
Hyponatremia, also known as low sodium levels, is a medical condition characterized by abnormally low levels of sodium in the blood. In hyponatremia, the concentration of sodium in the blood is below the normal reference range, typically below 135 mmol/L. Sodium is a critical electrolyte in maintaining osmotic equilibrium, nerve function, and fluid balance. The condition can be classified based on serum osmolality and volume status into hypovolemic, euvolemic, and hypervolemic hyponatremia. Hyponatremia disrupts the osmotic gradient, leading to cellular swelling, particularly affecting the central nervous system. This disturbance in sodium homeostasis can result in a range of pathophysiological effects, depending on the rapidity and severity of the decline in sodium levels.
What Are the Causes of Hyponatremia?
The most common causes of hyponatremia include:
Excess fluid retention, often due to conditions like heart failure, liver disease, or kidney disease
Hormonal imbalances, such as syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone (SIADH) secretion
Excessive fluid intake, particularly in endurance athletes, those using illicit drugs or individuals with psychiatric disorders
Certain medications, such as diuretics, antidepressants, and pain relievers
The symptoms of hyponatremia can vary in severity and may include:
Nausea, vomiting, and headache
Fatigue, confusion, and disorientation
Muscle cramps, spasms, and seizures
In severe cases, brain swelling, coma, and respiratory depression
Hyponatremia is diagnosed through a blood test that measures the sodium level. Urine testing is often used alongside blood tests to see how much sodium is lost in the urine. Additional tests may be needed to determine the underlying cause.
What Are the Treatments and Therapies for Hyponatremia?
The treatment of hyponatremia depends on the underlying cause and the severity of the condition. Options may include:
Fluid restriction
Sodium supplementation, either orally or intravenously
Medication adjustments or treatment of the underlying medical condition
In severe cases patients will need to be admitted to the hospital and could require treatment with hypertonic saline solution
How Can Well by Messer Help You with Hyponatremia?
At Well by Messer, our highly trained hyponatremia specialists will determine and carry out the necessary testing to identify the cause of hyponatremia and then initiate treatment. Depending on the severity, they will decide how to best manage this condition. For severe hyponatremia, hospital admission for fluid restriction, intravenous saline administration and frequent sodium monitoring may be necessary.
Meet the Well by Messer (WBM) Team
Under the leadership of top endocrinologist in New York, Dr. Caroline Messer, our caring and talented team of board-certified endocrinologists, psychologists, nutritionists, and personal trainers will be dedicated to supporting your success and regaining your metabolic health at our metabolic centers in Manhattan.
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