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The majority of sodium in the body is present in the extracellular fluid and the levels are mainly maintained by the function of kidneys
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The recommended dietary allowance (RDA) of sodium is 1000-1500 mg per day for those above one year of age
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The ingested sodium is absorbed from the intestine and excreted by three parts of the kidney. This excretion is regulated by the hormone aldosterone
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Hyponatremia is a condition in which the amount of sodium in the plasma is less than 135 mEq/L. Severe hyponatremia occurs when the sodium levels fall below 120 mEq/L
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It usually occurs because of more water retention in the body as opposed to increased salt intake. Hyponatremia is the most common electrolyte disorder in patients who are hospitalised
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Renal losses, use of excessive diuretics like furosemide, salt losing deficiency and Addison’s disease can lead to hyponatremia
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Extra-renal causes like excessive diarrhea, vomiting, pancreatitis along with trauma and burns over the body can also cause hyponatremia
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Beer potomania, also called beer drinker’s hyponatremia, occurs with excessive consumption of beer and poor diet
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Nausea, hiccups, headache, lethargy and muscle cramps are common features of reduced sodium concentration.
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The volume status must be assessed first, and serum potassium levels, creatinine levels and cortisol levels must also be checked to find the etiology