What causes low sodium levels in older adults. How to recognize symptoms of hyponatremia in seniors. What are effective treatments for sodium deficiency in the elderly. Why is low blood sodium a concern for older people. How can elderly individuals increase their sodium intake safely.

Understanding Hyponatremia: A Common Electrolyte Imbalance in Older Adults

Hyponatremia, or low blood sodium, is a prevalent and potentially serious condition among the elderly population. This electrolyte imbalance occurs when sodium levels in the blood fall below 135 milliequivalents per liter (mEq/L). While sodium is crucial for various bodily functions, including fluid balance and nerve signaling, its deficiency can lead to significant health complications in older adults.

Sodium plays a vital role in regulating the amount of water in and around cells. When sodium levels drop, water may move into cells, causing them to swell. This swelling can be particularly dangerous in the brain, potentially leading to severe neurological symptoms.

Normal Sodium Levels vs. Hyponatremia

Normal blood sodium levels typically range between 135-145 mEq/L. Any reading below 135 mEq/L indicates hyponatremia. In older adults, chronic low sodium levels are particularly concerning due to their increased susceptibility to medication side effects and underlying medical conditions that may exacerbate the problem.

Common Causes of Low Sodium Levels in the Elderly

Several factors can contribute to hyponatremia in older adults. Understanding these causes is crucial for prevention and effective management of the condition.

• Medications: Certain drugs, such as diuretics, antidepressants, and anti-seizure medications, can interfere with sodium balance.
• Hormonal disorders: Conditions like hypothyroidism or adrenal insufficiency can disrupt electrolyte balance.
• Chronic illnesses: Heart failure, liver disease, and kidney problems can all affect sodium levels.
• Excessive fluid intake: Drinking too much water can dilute sodium concentration in the blood.
• Certain cancers: Some types of cancer, particularly lung cancer, can lead to hyponatremia.
• Infections: Urinary tract infections and pneumonia can contribute to sodium imbalance.
• Intense physical activity: Excessive sweating without proper electrolyte replacement can lower sodium levels.

Recognizing Symptoms of Hyponatremia in Older Adults

Identifying the signs of low sodium in elderly individuals is crucial for timely intervention. Symptoms can range from mild to severe and may include:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Fatigue and weakness
• Confusion and disorientation
• Headaches
• Muscle cramps or weakness
• Irritability and mood changes
• Restlessness
• Loss of energy
• Seizures (in severe cases)
• Coma (in extreme cases)

Is it possible for hyponatremia to develop without noticeable symptoms? In some cases, especially when sodium levels drop gradually, symptoms may be subtle or absent. This underscores the importance of regular health check-ups for older adults, including blood tests to monitor electrolyte levels.

Diagnosis and Assessment of Hyponatremia in Seniors

Diagnosing hyponatremia in older adults involves a combination of clinical evaluation and laboratory tests. Healthcare providers typically follow these steps:

1. Medical history review: Assessing medications, underlying conditions, and recent illnesses.
2. Physical examination: Looking for signs of dehydration, fluid overload, or neurological symptoms.
3. Blood tests: Measuring serum sodium levels and other electrolytes.
4. Urine tests: Evaluating urine sodium concentration and osmolality.
5. Additional tests: Thyroid and adrenal function tests may be performed to rule out hormonal causes.

How frequently should elderly individuals have their sodium levels checked? For those at risk of hyponatremia, such as those on certain medications or with chronic conditions, sodium levels should be monitored regularly, often every 3-6 months or as recommended by a healthcare provider.

Treatment Strategies for Low Sodium Levels in the Elderly

Managing hyponatremia in older adults requires a tailored approach based on the underlying cause and severity of the condition. Treatment options may include:

• Medication adjustments: Modifying or discontinuing medications that contribute to low sodium levels.
• Fluid restriction: Limiting water intake to prevent further dilution of sodium in the blood.
• Treating underlying conditions: Addressing hormonal imbalances, infections, or other medical issues.
• Dietary changes: Increasing sodium intake through food sources rich in salt.
• Intravenous sodium solution: In severe cases, hospitalization may be necessary for controlled sodium replacement.
• Hormone replacement: For cases caused by hormonal deficiencies.

Can hyponatremia be corrected quickly? Rapid correction of sodium levels can be dangerous and lead to serious neurological complications. Treatment should be gradual and closely monitored by healthcare professionals to ensure safety.

Dietary Approaches to Increase Sodium Levels in Seniors

While excessive sodium intake is often discouraged due to its association with high blood pressure, older adults with hyponatremia may need to increase their sodium consumption under medical supervision. Here are some dietary strategies to consider:

• Incorporate salt-rich foods: Include foods naturally high in sodium, such as pickles, olives, and certain cheeses.
• Use salt in cooking: Add a moderate amount of salt when preparing meals.
• Choose sodium-fortified products: Opt for sports drinks or electrolyte solutions that contain sodium.
• Consume broth-based soups: These can be a good source of sodium and fluids.
• Snack on salted nuts or pretzels: These provide a sodium boost in small portions.

Is it safe for all seniors to increase their sodium intake? Increased sodium intake should only be undertaken under medical guidance, as it may not be appropriate for those with certain health conditions like hypertension or heart disease.

Preventing Hyponatremia in Older Adults

Prevention is key in managing the risk of hyponatremia in the elderly population. Here are some strategies to help maintain healthy sodium levels:

• Regular monitoring: Schedule routine check-ups and blood tests to track electrolyte levels.
• Medication review: Work with healthcare providers to assess and adjust medications as needed.
• Balanced hydration: Avoid excessive fluid intake, especially during intense physical activity or hot weather.
• Dietary awareness: Maintain a balanced diet that includes appropriate amounts of sodium.
• Education: Learn about the symptoms of hyponatremia and when to seek medical attention.
• Manage chronic conditions: Keep underlying health issues well-controlled through proper treatment and follow-up.

How can caregivers help prevent hyponatremia in elderly individuals? Caregivers play a crucial role in prevention by monitoring fluid intake, ensuring proper nutrition, assisting with medication management, and being alert to early signs of electrolyte imbalance.

Complications and Risks of Untreated Hyponatremia in Seniors

If left untreated, hyponatremia can lead to serious health complications, especially in older adults. Potential risks include:

• Cognitive decline: Chronic low sodium levels may contribute to cognitive impairment and increase the risk of falls.
• Osteoporosis: Some studies suggest a link between chronic hyponatremia and decreased bone density.
• Increased mortality: Severe or prolonged hyponatremia is associated with higher mortality rates in hospitalized elderly patients.
• Neurological damage: Rapid changes in sodium levels, either too low or corrected too quickly, can lead to brain damage.
• Increased hospital stays: Hyponatremia often leads to longer hospital admissions and higher healthcare costs.

Can hyponatremia cause permanent brain damage? In severe cases or with improper treatment, hyponatremia can indeed lead to permanent neurological damage, emphasizing the importance of proper medical management.

Long-term Management of Sodium Levels in the Elderly

Managing sodium levels in older adults often requires ongoing attention and care. Long-term strategies may include:

1. Regular follow-up appointments with healthcare providers
2. Periodic blood tests to monitor electrolyte levels
3. Adjustment of treatment plans as needed based on changing health status
4. Continuous education on proper hydration and nutrition
5. Monitoring for potential side effects of medications

How often should treatment plans for hyponatremia be reviewed? Treatment plans should be reassessed regularly, typically every 3-6 months or more frequently if there are significant changes in health status or medication regimens.

Special Considerations for Hyponatremia in Elderly Care Facilities

Elderly individuals residing in nursing homes or assisted living facilities may require special attention regarding sodium balance. Care facilities should implement protocols to:

• Train staff on recognizing signs of hyponatremia
• Implement hydration schedules that balance fluid intake with sodium levels
• Ensure proper medication management to avoid drug-induced hyponatremia
• Provide appropriate dietary options for residents with low sodium levels
• Establish clear communication channels with healthcare providers for prompt intervention when needed

What role do dietitians play in managing hyponatremia in care facilities? Dietitians are crucial in developing meal plans that meet the nutritional needs of residents while addressing individual sodium requirements, especially for those with hyponatremia.

Educating Families and Caregivers

Family members and caregivers play a vital role in managing hyponatremia in older adults. Education should focus on:

• Understanding the symptoms of low sodium levels
• Proper hydration practices
• Monitoring and reporting changes in behavior or physical condition
• Assisting with medication management
• Supporting dietary recommendations

How can family members effectively communicate concerns about hyponatremia to healthcare providers? Keeping a log of symptoms, changes in fluid intake, and any notable incidents can provide valuable information to healthcare providers in assessing and managing hyponatremia.

Research and Future Directions in Geriatric Hyponatremia Management

Ongoing research in the field of geriatric medicine continues to shed light on better ways to manage hyponatremia in older adults. Some areas of focus include:

• Development of more precise diagnostic tools for hyponatremia in the elderly
• Investigation of novel treatments with fewer side effects
• Studies on the long-term impact of chronic, mild hyponatremia on cognitive function and bone health
• Exploration of genetic factors that may predispose certain individuals to sodium imbalances
• Research into age-specific guidelines for sodium and fluid intake

What promising new treatments for hyponatremia are on the horizon? Researchers are exploring targeted therapies that can help regulate sodium levels more effectively, including new medications that may offer better control with fewer side effects.

Technological Advancements in Monitoring

Emerging technologies are offering new ways to monitor and manage electrolyte levels in older adults:

• Wearable devices that can track hydration status and alert users to potential imbalances
• Smartphone apps that help monitor fluid intake and symptoms
• Telemedicine platforms that allow for remote monitoring and consultation with healthcare providers
• Advanced point-of-care testing devices for rapid sodium level assessment

How might these technological advancements improve outcomes for elderly patients with hyponatremia? By providing real-time monitoring and early detection of sodium imbalances, these technologies could potentially prevent severe episodes of hyponatremia and improve overall management of the condition.

Conclusion: A Comprehensive Approach to Managing Hyponatremia in the Elderly

Hyponatremia in older adults is a complex condition that requires a multifaceted approach to management. By understanding the causes, recognizing symptoms early, and implementing appropriate treatment strategies, healthcare providers, caregivers, and patients can work together to effectively manage this common electrolyte imbalance.

Key takeaways for managing hyponatremia in the elderly include:

• Regular monitoring of sodium levels, especially in at-risk individuals
• Careful medication management and review
• Balanced approach to hydration and nutrition
• Prompt treatment of underlying conditions
• Education of patients, families, and caregivers
• Ongoing research and adoption of new technologies for improved care

By maintaining vigilance and employing a comprehensive care strategy, the risks associated with hyponatremia in older adults can be significantly reduced, leading to better health outcomes and improved quality of life for this vulnerable population.

Low Sodium Levels in the Elderly

July 08, 2021

Subscribe

Low Sodium Levels in the Elderly

When blood sodium levels become dangerously low, a condition called hyponatremia can occur. Sodium is an electrolyte that helps regulate the amount of water in your cells and the surrounding tissue.

It is important to know what causes low sodium in the elderly so the condition can be monitored and treated as soon as symptoms appear.

Low sodium in the elderly can lead to other medical conditions such as a rise in blood pressure, a weakening of muscle tissue, and an imbalance body fluid, lethargy, confusion, and even seizures if it is left untreated.

What Causes Low Sodium in Elderly People?

• Medications such as diuretics, some types of antidepressants, and anti-seizure medications.
• Underactive thyroid or adrenal glands
• Certain cancers, such as lung cancer
• Decreased liver, heart, or kidney function.
• Urinary tract infections
• Illnesses that can cause dehydration such as pneumonia.

What are Normal Sodium Levels in the Elderly?

Disturbances in water and electrolyte balances often occur in the elderly. A normal sodium level is between 135-145 milliequivalents per liter (mEq/L). A reading below 135 mEq/L indicates hyponatremia or low sodium.

Chronic low sodium in elderly people can be problematic because they are more likely to take medications or have medical conditions that put them at risk for the condition.

Download Our Healthy Aging Diet Guide

Why do Sodium Levels Drop in the Elderly?

There can be other causes of low sodium in elderly people, such as underlying conditions or habits that cause sodium levels to drop. Let’s take a look at some of those.

• Drinking too much water. (Yes, too much water in the body can dilute sodium levels in the bloodstream.)
• Hormone disorders such as Addison’s Disease or hypothyroidism.
• Intense exercise may cause excessive consumption of water too quickly.
• Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea as the result of an illness.
• Congestive heart failure
• Kidney failure

What are the Symptoms of Low Sodium Levels in the Elderly?

• Nausea with vomiting
• Fatigue
• Confusion
• Headache
• Muscle cramps or weakness
• Irritability
• Restlessness
• Loss of energy
• Seizures
• In severe cases, even a coma

How to Increase Sodium Levels in Elderly People

• Adjust or change medications.
• Cut back on water and fluid consumption.
• Seek treatment for underlying conditions or diseases.
• Eat foods that are high in sodium.
• Increase dietary protein to aid in water excretion.
• Infusing an intravenous sodium solution.

Hyponatremia is the most common chemical abnormality seen in patients admitted to the hospital. Elderly patients are at a higher risk for the condition and often suffer from chronic low sodium levels.

You can lower your risk of hyponatremia by being aware of the symptoms and causes, following your medical treatment plan, and restricting your fluid intake as recommended by your doctor.

Be sure to notify your physician if you experience any of the symptoms listed above, so you can receive interventional treatments before the condition progresses. If sodium levels drop too much or too quickly, hyponatremia can quickly become life-threatening.

Therapy may be short-term or long-term, but with early diagnosis and treatment, most people can fully recover from hyponatremia.

To learn more about our home care services, contact our caregiving team today at
(877) 268-3277 or
find a caregiver near you.

To learn more about our home care services,
contact our caregiving team today online or call us at
(877) 268-3277.

Categories

• Nutrition & Diet

• Prev Post
• Next Post

How to increase Low sodium levels in Seniors ?

 Low sodium levels in the body is a prevalent problem faced by the seniors in our community. Seniors may face sodium deficiency problems due to various reasons including health problems or other disorders. Sodium is a vital element for the body, as it helps to maintain optimum water levels in the body. Owing to this, seniors must maintain proper sodium levels in the body. In this blog, you will understand the reasons for low sodium levels in seniors, its symptoms, and ways to raise the sodium levels back to normal. 

What exactly are Sodium Levels?  

Sodium is a crucial electrolyte for our body and plays an important role in maintaining water balance in the body. Further, sodium also helps in facilitating efficient muscle functioning, proper nerve health, and stabilizing blood pressure. These reasons make it necessary for seniors to maintain appropriate sodium levels in their bodies. 

Low sodium levels in the body can cause a medical problem called hyponatremia. Hyponatremia occurs due to a disparity in the sodium and water levels in the body. In a healthy adult body, the normal sodium levels range from somewhere between 135 and 145 mEq/L. Any reading below 135 mEq/L is diagnosed as hyponatremia. 

What Causes Low Sodium Levels in Seniors?  

Typically, it is seniors that suffer from low sodium levels the most. This condition is especially widespread among seniors residing in elder-care facilities, or hospitals for medical treatment. The reason for this is, seniors are usually prescribed medications contributory to low sodium levels. Below are some other reasons for low sodium levels in seniors: 

• Hypothyroidism 
• Vomiting 
• Diarrhoea 
• Dehydration 
• Inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion syndrome 
• Kidney problems 
• Liver diseases 
• Heart problems 
• Medications like antidepressants, or diuretics 

Symptoms of Low Sodium Levels in Seniors  

Every case of sodium deficiency is different in seniors. Some seniors experience only mild symptoms, while others might have to endure the most extreme symptoms. The majority of seniors with low sodium levels face problems of confusion, inconsistent personality, and fatigue. More serious cases of sodium deficiency can exhibit symptoms like seizures and fits. Some symptoms of low sodium levels or sodium deficiency are: 

• Vomiting and nausea  
• Frequent headaches 
• Lethargy 
• Muscle pain 
• Cramps 
• Irritability 

How to Increase Sodium Levels in Seniors?  

The following are some ways to increase  sodium levels in seniors and fight off various health issues caused by a sodium deficiency: 

• The easiest way to increase sodium levels in the body is to reduce your water intake. Hyponatremia is caused due to an imbalance between the sodium and water levels in the body. Thus, lowering the water intake can help raise sodium levels in the body. 

• One of the major causes of low sodium levels in the body is the excess intake of diuretics (any substance that promotes the production of urine). One should curb the intake of such diuretics; it is advised that you consult a doctor for medicinal alternatives that do not adversely affect sodium levels. 

• Increasing salt consumption can help regulate sodium levels in the body. However, it is recommended that you take a doctor’s advice before taking this step, as it can be counterproductive to overall health. Salt is considered a rich source of sodium, and the consumption of the same can help maintain a proper balance. 

What Foods Raise Sodium Levels?  

Improving your diet and incorporating more sodium-rich foods can help you increase your sodium levels. Given below are some foods that are high in sodium and can help seniors in fighting sodium deficiency:  

• Bread 
• Bananas 
• Olives 
• Cottage cheese 
• Rice 
• Salted nuts 
• Margarine 
• Sauerkraut 
• Pasta 

Further, lowering your caffeine and alcohol intake also helps raise sodium levels in the body. Salt tablets are increasingly becoming a popular way to defer sodium deficiency, but it is advised that you consult a doctor before consuming any.  

In a Nutshell  

Sodium deficiency is a grave health hazard, and if left untreated it can lead to serious long-term complications. The symptoms vary from person to person, while most people only exhibit mild symptoms, others can also bear a more severe brunt of the problem. This health condition is more prevalent among the seniors in our citizenry and can be due to various factors. However, the treatment for sodium deficiency is fairly simple and can be easily incorporated into our daily lifestyle. 

Read Also : What are some effective therapies for seniors to keep their blood sugar levels under control?

  Related Posts

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to recover from sodium deficiency? 

This is solely based on the severity of sodium deficiency in the body. While most people can recover from low sodium levels within 24 hours, more severe cases might take up to several years to recover from this condition. 

What happens when sodium levels are low? 

One of the more noticeable symptoms of sodium deficiency in seniors is irritability, confusion, and lethargy

What is the normal sodium level for adults? 

The normal sodium levels in adults range from 135 mEq/L to 145 mEq/L. Any reading below 135 mEq/L is considered to be sodium deficiency. 

Hyponatremia, what kind of disease, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment

Adamant
medical clinic

St. Petersburg, embankment of the river Moika, 78.

+7 (812) 740-20-90

Content:

Hyponatremia – fluid retention in the body, which leads to a sharp decrease in the amount of sodium in the blood to a critical level – below 135 mmol / l. The disease is extremely dangerous due to its unpredictability and swiftness. Its most severe complication is cerebral edema. Several causes can cause hyponatremia. That is why the doctors of Adamant Medical Clinic will conduct a comprehensive analysis of your body. This will allow you to diagnose the cause of the disease with high accuracy and immediately begin treatment.

Symptoms of hyponatremia

The severity of symptoms of hyponatremia depends on the rapidity of the disease. If the disease progresses slowly, then it is almost asymptomatic. Its signs appear after a long time, when the concentration of sodium in the blood drops to a critical level. With the rapid development of hyponatremia, deterioration occurs within two days.

It causes swelling of the brain, which has the following symptoms:

• drowsiness;
• nausea and vomiting;
• confusion;
• impaired coordination of movements;
• convulsions.

Lack of urgent medical attention for hyponatremia will lead to coma. In the most severe cases, death. In order to avoid dangerous consequences at the first symptoms of hyponatremia, contact Adamant Medical Clinic! Our specialists will arrive at the address you specified as soon as possible and will provide all the necessary assistance, which will allow you to save your life and health!

Causes of hyponatremia

Low blood sodium in hyponatremia due to retention of excess water in the body is the main cause of the disease. This state is called:

1. Extrarenal losses:

   • diarrhea and vomiting;
   • burns, peritonitis, pancreatitis.

2. Kidney loss:

   • lack of mineralocorticoids;
   • the use of diuretics;
   • salt-losing nephropathy;
   • osmotic diuresis.

3. Non-renal disorders:

   • heart failure;
   • cirrhosis;
   • nephrotic syndrome.

As you can see, hyponatremia is a consequence of diseases that can be recognized in advance, without bringing your body to a critical state. In case of problems with your health, please contact Adamant Medical Clinic, our specialists will conduct a complete examination of your body and immediately begin treatment!

Sodium deficiency: symptoms and treatment

Hyponatremia – behind this hard-to-read word hides a very simple concept: lack of sodium in the body. Usually, talking about sodium immediately evokes associations with salt and the need to limit its use. However, sodium is not at all an enemy to the body, its moderate use is vital for health.

We will try to explain why we need sodium, how to understand that we do not have enough of it, and what to do in this case.

What is sodium?

Sodium is an electrolyte, a macronutrient that is involved in blood circulation and metabolic processes in the body. Together with fluorine and potassium, it maintains the water-salt balance in the human body and regulates the activity of the nervous and muscular systems.

That is why man instinctively eats salty food.

Why do we need sodium?

The answer is simple. It is necessary for the normal functioning of the body.

• Sodium maintains the water-salt balance in the body – remember that we are 65% water. Prevents dehydration, protects against sunstroke and muscle spasms.
• Sodium maintains normal osmotic pressure between cells and tissue fluid
• Sodium ensures the penetration of glucose into cells – the main source of energy for metabolic processes
• Sodium contributes to the normal functioning of nerve cells and the conduction of electrical impulses
• Sodium is involved in the transport of carbon dioxide in the respiratory system
• Sodium activates the enzymes of the endocrine and digestive systems.
• In addition, sodium helps to maintain the activity of the cardiovascular system, has a beneficial effect on the heart muscle.
• Sodium is also necessary for our brain, as it improves the functioning of brain cells, helps us maintain a “clear mind”, promotes concentration.
• A little-known fact: Sodium is included in all creams for aging skin, as it fights free radicals that destroy the epidermis.

Important: sodium successfully performs all these functions only at a certain concentration in the body. Both a decrease and an increase in its level lead to serious disorders of metabolic processes.

I think this long list of arguments for sodium has convinced you to include it in your daily diet. Nutritionists believe that we need 1500 to 2300 mg of sodium per day. 1 g of common table salt contains 0.4 g of sodium.

Hypernatremia: high sodium

One of the most common problems in the world today is excess sodium in the blood. According to statistics, the French on average absorb from 2000 to 4800 mg of sodium per day. It’s all about the amount of semi-finished products consumed and too salty sauces. Unfortunately, modern food manufacturers do not skimp on adding salt.

Excess sodium is harmful to health. Stomach ulcers, bladder stones, high blood pressure… Diseases caused by an excess of sodium in the blood are serious diseases, and their treatment should be approached systemically.

Sodium deficiency symptoms?

Although most people suffer from too much sodium due to salty foods, this also happens. That is why sodium deficiency is more difficult to diagnose.

In the case of a deficiency of this trace element, the patient suffers from an inexplicable aversion to water, vomiting and diarrhea. If left untreated, dizziness, nausea, loss of balance appear. A person begins to feel weakness, lack of energy, loses weight.

The most severe symptoms also appear at the level of the brain: migraines are replaced by confusion, heaviness in the head, inability to express one’s thoughts correctly. Such symptoms are particularly difficult to detect in children and older people with dementia.

When a person is chronically deficient in sodium, the health consequences can be most severe. From muscle convulsions to the most extreme forms of apathy.

Consequences of sodium deficiency

Usually, sodium deficiency is not diagnosed in time, which entails a number of unpleasant consequences:

Firstly, it leads to an increase in cholesterol and triglyceride levels, which, in turn, threatens the development of cardiovascular diseases.

Second, chronic low sodium intake can lead to insulin resistance and, as a result, diabetes and an increased risk of heart attack or stroke.

Causes of sodium deficiency

At the slightest suspicion, a diagnosis should be made followed by treatment. Hyponatremia can be determined by a routine blood test. It is more difficult to understand what caused this condition: only a doctor can name the cause of the disease.

Hyponatremia is often the result of dehydration caused by vomiting. One is connected to the other and a vicious circle is formed: after all, insufficient sodium causes vomiting, and with it, sodium is washed out of the body even more.

Kidney failure, hormonal imbalance, heart disease, excessive sweating can also lead to hyponatremia.

Finally, malnutrition and excessive fasting can cause sodium loss.

There is also a reason that is characteristic of older people – the so-called water intoxication. In the heat, it is recommended to drink a lot. Some older people, taking this advice too literally, drink so much that the sodium is flushed out of the body. Sometimes this happens with bedridden patients.

How to raise the level of sodium in the blood?

There are several effective ways. At a critically low level, an intravenous sodium solution is administered through a dropper for several days. In this case, the patient reduces water intake from 1.5 to 1 liter per day. Thus, when urinating or during sweating, less sodium is excreted from the body. However, at extremely high temperatures and increased physical activity, reducing fluid intake is not recommended.

It is also worth reviewing the diet. Eat more fruits and vegetables, both fresh and homemade. White beans, sweet potatoes, spinach, carrots, celery, olives are among the vegetables rich in sodium. Among fruits, give preference to seasonal apricots. From meat products – broth, jelly and beef stew. It will be useful to eat cheese, soy sauce, black caviar. Prepare a homemade electrolyte drink.

If you have hyponatremia, do not use diuretics under any circumstances, they will only aggravate the situation.

Conclusion

So, sodium is an indispensable trace element in human nutrition, and its deficiency in the diet can cause headaches, vomiting, nausea, and confusion. Severe hyponatremia leads to cardiovascular disease and diabetes.

It is necessary to recognize both an excess of sodium in the body and its deficiency in time. At the slightest suspicion, consult a doctor and do a blood test.

Fortunately, managing hyponatremia is easy. Just do not pounce on the salt shaker or absorb tons of fatty and salted semi-finished products.