Question

Enumerate the causes and clinical features of hyponatremia.

Hint:

Hyponatremia can be caused by both excessive fluid intake and decreased sodium levels. Keep track of both fluid and sodium intake in patients at risk.

Answer 1

Step 1: Causes of hyponatremia.
Hyponatremia is a condition characterized by low sodium levels in the blood. It can be caused by several factors:
- Excessive water intake: Overconsumption of water dilutes sodium levels in the body.
- Renal failure: Impaired kidney function can prevent proper excretion of water, leading to hyponatremia.
- Heart failure: In heart failure, fluid retention occurs, leading to dilution of sodium in the blood.
- SIADH (Syndrome of Inappropriate Antidiuretic Hormone secretion): Increased secretion of ADH leads to water retention, diluting sodium levels.
- Diuretics: Certain medications like diuretics increase urine output and can cause loss of sodium.

Step 2: Clinical features of hyponatremia.
The clinical features vary depending on the severity of hyponatremia and the rate of onset:
- Mild hyponatremia: Headache, nausea, and vomiting.
- Moderate hyponatremia: Lethargy, confusion, muscle cramps, and weakness.
- Severe hyponatremia: Seizures, coma, and in extreme cases, death.