This page deals with the interpretation of blood values that can be obtained from a blood test
English: sodium
Sodium is one of the vital electrolytes (salts). Many important metabolic processes are regulated by sodium.
Sodium forms an opposing pair with potassium in our body. While sodium is mainly outside the cells (in the so-called cell space), potassium is found in the cell.
The sodium content of our body is kept constant by various control mechanisms. Sodium is actively pumped out of the cell in exchange for potassium (Na-K-ATP´ase).
Sodium is absorbed through food in the small intestine and excreted through the kidneys.
The total content of sodium in the body is kept very constant within narrow limits.
Sodium is highly osmotic. In simple terms, this means that sodium can attract water. This phenomenon is known from table salt (NaCl), that if it is not stored dry it draws water.
Accordingly, sodium also belongs in our body. Larger intake of table salt leads to the fact that “water” is attracted and as a result thirst arises.
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The sodium level is determined in the blood plasma or in the blood serum. A blood sample is necessary for this. Other Electrolytes in the blood to be determined.
Values that are considered normal in a healthy adult are in the range of.
Normal values of sodium in the blood: 135 to 145 mmol / l
An increase in the sodium concentration in serum or plasma greater than 145 mmol / l is referred to medically as hypernatremia.
Symptoms usually only appear at sodium concentrations greater than 150 mmol / l. Sodium levels above 160 mmol / l can lead to life-threatening situations.
In most cases, hypernatremia is caused by a lack of water.
The consequences of hypernatremia are:
Causes of hypernatremia can be:
Read more about hypernatremia here
$config[ads_text2] not foundA decrease in the sodium concentration in plasma or serum below 135 mmol / l is medically referred to as hyponatremia.
As a rule, sodium concentrations of less than 130 mmol / l cause symptoms. Symptoms are particularly common when the sodium level falls particularly quickly.
With a slow decrease, the body can adapt to the new sodium values.
Causes of hyponatremia can be: