What is Hyponatreamia?
Hyponatraemia is the medical term for abnormally low sodium content in the blood (measured in mmol/L serum). Normal serum sodium is between 135 to 145 mmol/L, whereas patients diagnosed with hyponatraemia have sodium levels of less than 135 mmol/L. Low concentrations is known to occur in a large proportion of patients admitted to hospital.
Hyponatremia is known to be predictor of poor outcome in patients with serious underlying illnesses. In its most serious forms hyponatemia may cause seizure and coma and can even be fatal, whereas in its mildest forms may decreased concentration and impaired memory.
Hyponatremia signs and symptoms may include:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Headache
- Confusion
- Lethargy
- Fatigue
- Appetite loss
- Restlessness and irritability
- Muscle weakness, spasms or cramps
- Seizures
- Decreased consciousness or coma