What does the Sodium - NA blood test mean? Get a free analysis of your blood test now. Here's what you get with our free analysis:
Sodium is a crucial electrolyte that helps regulate blood pressure, fluid balance, and nerve and muscle function. This test measures the concentration of sodium in the blood. Maintaining proper sodium levels is essential for various bodily functions, including: - Regulating blood pressure - Maintaining fluid balance - Supporting nerve impulse transmission - Facilitating muscle contractions Abnormal sodium levels can indicate various conditions, such as dehydration, kidney problems, heart failure, or hormonal imbalances. Monitoring sodium levels is particularly important for patients with certain medical conditions or those taking medications that affect electrolyte balance.
A low sodium reading (hyponatremia) can indicate:
Symptoms may include nausea, headache, confusion, fatigue, and in severe cases, seizures or coma. Treatment depends on the underlying cause and may involve fluid restriction, medication adjustments, or addressing hormonal imbalances.
A high sodium reading (hypernatremia) can indicate:
Symptoms may include thirst, dry mouth, decreased urine output, confusion, and in severe cases, seizures or coma. Treatment typically involves addressing the underlying cause and carefully rehydrating the patient. In some cases, medication adjustments or hormonal treatments may be necessary.