What is Sodium?

Sodium is an essential electrolyte that helps regulate water balance, nerve function, and muscle contractions. It's the main positively charged ion in the fluid outside your cells.

Why is it Important?

Sodium plays a critical role in:

Maintaining blood pressure and blood volume
Transmitting nerve impulses
Enabling muscle contractions
Regulating pH balance

Abnormal sodium levels can indicate kidney disease, dehydration, heart failure, or hormonal imbalances.

Normal Ranges

Group	Range	Unit
Adult	135 – 145	mEq/L
Critical Low	< 120	mEq/L
Critical High	> 160	mEq/L

What Do Abnormal Results Mean?

Low Sodium (Hyponatremia)

Common causes include:

Excessive water intake
Heart failure or kidney disease
SIADH (syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone)
Diuretic medications
Adrenal insufficiency
Severe vomiting or diarrhea

High Sodium (Hypernatremia)

Common causes include:

Dehydration from insufficient water intake
Excessive water loss (sweating, diarrhea, burns)
Diabetes insipidus
Cushing's syndrome
High salt intake

When Should You Get Tested?

Sodium is part of routine electrolyte panels and comprehensive metabolic panels. Your doctor may order it if you have symptoms like confusion, seizures, muscle weakness, fatigue, or irregular heartbeat.