What does hyponatremia refer to?

Hyponatremia refers specifically to low sodium levels in the blood. Sodium is an essential electrolyte that plays a crucial role in maintaining fluid balance, nerve transmission, and muscle function. When sodium levels drop below the normal range, which is typically considered to be between 135 to 145 milliequivalents per liter, it can lead to various symptoms and health issues.

This condition may result from factors such as excessive fluid intake, certain medications, medical conditions affecting hormone levels, or other electrolyte imbalances. Understanding hyponatremia is important in clinical practice because it can influence patient management and treatment decisions. Recognizing the importance of sodium balance is crucial for healthcare providers, as both hyponatremia and its counterpart, hypernatremia (high sodium levels), can have significant impacts on patient health.