Sodium

The Sodium test measures the level of sodium in the blood. Sodium is a vital electrolyte that helps regulate fluid balance, blood pressure, nerve function, and muscle contraction. Maintaining proper sodium levels is essential for normal cellular function and overall health.

1. What Is Sodium?

• Sodium is an essential electrolyte and mineral found in the blood and body fluids.

• It helps control fluid balance, transmit nerve signals, and support proper muscle function.

• The kidneys help regulate sodium levels by adjusting how much is excreted in urine.

2. Why Is the Sodium Test Performed?

This test is used to:

• Evaluate fluid and electrolyte balance.

• Diagnose causes of symptoms like weakness, confusion, dehydration, or swelling.

• Monitor chronic conditions such as kidney disease, heart failure, or adrenal disorders.

• Check for imbalances in people receiving IV fluids, diuretics, or other medications.

3. Sodium Reference Range

• Normal range: 135 – 145 mmol/L

• Values may vary slightly depending on the laboratory and patient’s condition.

4. Interpreting Sodium Results

🔹 High Sodium (Hypernatremia):

• May indicate dehydration, excessive salt intake, kidney disease, or certain endocrine disorders.

• Can cause symptoms such as thirst, confusion, muscle twitching, or seizures in severe cases.

🔹 Low Sodium (Hyponatremia):

• May result from fluid overload, heart failure, kidney or liver disease, or use of diuretics.

• Can cause headache, nausea, confusion, seizures, and even coma if severe.

5. What Can Affect Sodium Levels?

• Hydration status (dehydration or overhydration)

• Kidney function and water regulation

• Medications such as diuretics, antidepressants, or antiepileptics

• Hormonal conditions (e.g., SIADH, Addison's disease, Cushing’s syndrome)

6. How Is the Test Performed?

• A blood sample is drawn from a vein.

• Sodium is often measured as part of a basic or comprehensive metabolic panel.

7. When to See a Doctor

🚨 Contact your healthcare provider if you:

• Experience symptoms such as confusion, swelling, weakness, or fatigue.

• Have conditions that affect sodium levels or are taking medications that impact electrolyte balance.

• Receive abnormal results and need further evaluation.

🔹 Key Takeaways

✅ Sodium is crucial for hydration, nerve, and muscle function.

✅ Imbalances can lead to serious health issues, especially affecting the brain and heart.

✅ Monitoring is important for patients with kidney disease, on certain medications, or with fluid balance concerns.