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Sodium

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Sodium is the primary cation in the extracellular environment, playing a critical role in regulating extracellular fluid. Approximately 96% of the sodium in the body is located outside the cells. It is involved in increasing nerve and skeletal muscle excitability and in the transport of H⁺ ions.

The plasma sodium level depends on the balance between intake, distribution in the body, and excretion through the kidneys and sweat glands. The renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system and vasopressin play key roles in sodium regulation.

  • The test is performed on a blood sample drawn from a vein.
  • Fasting for 8–14 hours is required prior to the test.
  • The test should be conducted between 8:00 and 11:00 AM.
  • Avoid excessive food consumption before the analysis.
  • Gastrointestinal disorders, including vomiting and diarrhea
  • Adrenal insufficiency
  • Kidney pathology
  • Dehydration or rapid fluid loss

Elevated Sodium Levels (Hypernatremia):

  • Hypertonic Dehydration:
    • a) Fluid loss through the skin due to excessive sweating.
    • b) Fluid loss through the lungs during prolonged shortness of breath.
    • c) Fluid loss through the gastrointestinal system during vomiting and severe diarrhea.
    • d) Chills accompanied by high fever.
  • Insufficient fluid intake in the body.
  • Sodium retention in the kidneys.
  • Administration of large quantities of sodium salts into the body.
  • Use of medications such as anabolic steroids, androgens, corticosteroids, estrogens, methyldopa, and oral contraceptives.

    Reduced Sodium Levels (Hyponatremia):

  • Insufficient sodium intake.
  • Excessive use of diuretics.
  • Adrenal insufficiency.
  • Acute kidney failure.
  • Osmotic diuresis.
  • Hypotonic overhydration.
  • Hypothyroidism.
  • Use of medications such as furosemide, aminoglycosides, hypertonic glucose solutions, amitriptyline, and haloperidol.