A sodium (Na+) blood test is a standard medical test that checks sodium concentration in your blood.
It’s often performed as part of a panel of blood tests.
Various medical issues can affect your sodium blood levels.
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However, this test typicallydoes notprovide good information about whether you should reduce the amount ofsodium in your diet.
When levels are off, however, body systems such as your brain and heart can be affected.
Severe hyponatremia, which poses an increased risk of serious complications, is defined as 120 mEq/L or less.
It can also happen when you are losing a lot of sodium from your body.
Hypernatremia can occur when the body loses a lot of water, like throughdehydration.
It might also occur with excess vomiting, sweating, or urination.
Low Sodium (Hyponatremia) Risks
Having hyponatremia may not cause any symptoms, especially at first.
But if it worsens or isnt corrected, it may cause issues like headache, lethargy, or dizziness.
They might include lack of appetite, vomiting, muscle weakness, and restlessness.
Why It’s Done
A sodium blood test is a common test.
For that, you may need additional tests.
Many people need toreduce sodium intakein their diet.
Check with a healthcare provider to see if you better increase the amount of salt in your diet.
Next Steps for High Levels of Blood Sodium
Some people with high blood sodium also need treatment.
Talk to a healthcare provider about the next steps.
Summary
A sodium blood test is a common assessment that measures your bloods sodium concentration.
It can be affected by the amount of sodium and fluid in your body.
Typically, the kidneys tightly regulate the blood sodium concentration.
But sometimes, it can become too low (hyponatremia) or too high (hypernatremia).
Both can cause serious health consequences, like seizures.
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