Symptomatic euvolemic Hyponatremia
What is Symptomatic Euvolemic Hyponatremia?
Symptomatic Euvolemic Hyponatremia is a rare condition where the concentration of sodium in the blood is abnormally low. The sodium content in the blood should ideally be 136-145 mEq/L, but in patients suffering from symptomatic euvolemic hyponatremia, this concentration falls below 130 mEq/L.
It is most commonly caused by several medications, including diuretics, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, vinca alkaloids, and other drugs. Hyponatremia may also be caused by an adrenal or pituitary gland disorder, hypothyroidism, or the syndrome of inappropriate ADH secretion. It can also result from pulmonary, renal, hepatic, and cardiac diseases.
Symptoms of Symptomatic Euvolemic Hyponatremia
Some of the most common symptoms of symptomatic euvolemic hyponatremia are:
- Headaches
- Muscle cramps
- Fatigue
- Nausea and vomiting
- Confusion
- Irritability
- Agitation
- Lethargy and sleep disturbances
- Convulsions, coma, or even death in extreme cases
It is important to note that symptomatic euvolemic hyponatremia can have serious or life-threatening consequences if left untreated. Therefore, people with any of the above symptoms should seek medical help as soon as possible.
Diagnosis and Treatment
To diagnose symptomatic euvolemic hyponatremia, a doctor will perform a physical examination and ask questions about the patient’s medical history. Blood tests and urine tests will also be done to measure levels of sodium and other electrolytes in the body.
The goal of treatment is to raise the levels of sodium in the body to a normal range. This can be done through oral or intravenous medications or through physical techniques, such as fluid restriction, diuretics, or hypertonic saline. In some cases, dialysis may be needed.
