Hyponatremia overview
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Hyponatremia Microchapters |
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Diagnosis |
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Treatment |
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Case Studies |
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Hyponatremia overview On the Web |
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American Roentgen Ray Society Images of Hyponatremia overview |
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]
Overview
The electrolyte disturbance hyponatremia exists in humans when the sodium (Natrium in Latin) concentration in the plasma falls below 130 mmol/L. At lower levels water intoxication may result, an urgently dangerous condition. Hyponatremia is an abnormality that can occur in isolation or, as most often is the case, as a complication of other medical illnesses.
Risk Factors
Hyponatremia is more frequent in females, the elderly, and in patients who are hospitalized. [1]
Treatment
Primary Prevention
Treating the condition that is causing hyponatremia can help. If you play any sports, drink fluids that contain electrolytes (sports drinks). Drinking only water while you take part in high-energy athletic events can lead to acute hyponatremia.
References
- ↑ Schrier, Robert W. "Does 'asymptomatic hyponatremia' exist?" Nature Reviews Nephrology. Vol 6, Apr 2010; p 185.