Hypernatremia Treatment Information
- By:Juliet Cohen
Hypernatremia is a greater than normal concentration of sodium in the blood. Sodium is an electrolyte that helps with nerve and muscle function, and also helps to maintain blood pressure. Hypernatremia in adults has a mortality of 40 to 60%. Hypernatremia usually implies either an impaired thirst mechanism or limited access to water. The severity of the underlying diseases that usually result in an inability to drink and the effects of brain hyperosmolality are thought to be responsible for the high mortality. The elderly are particularly susceptible, especially in warm weather, due to a reduced thirst response and underlying diseases.
Hypernatremia occurs when the body loses too much water in relation to the amount of sodium in the blood. Excessive water loss can occur if the kidneys excrete too much urine. Hypernatremia can also be caused by a high salt intake, either in the diet or in intravenous treatments for other conditions. Hypernatremia can cause neurological damage due to shrinkage of brain cells. Neurological symptoms include confusion, coma, paralysis of the lung muscles, and death. Hypernatremia is treated with infusions of a solution of water containing 0.9% sodium chloride , which is the normal concentration of sodium chloride in the blood plasma.
Hypernatremia Treatment and Prevention Tips
1. Hypervolemic patients require removal of excess sodium.
2. Drinking plenty of fluids also recommended.
3. Frequent monitoring of electrolytes is key to successful management.
4. Avoid caffeine and alcohol, as these can cause you to have electrolyte disturbances.About the author:
Juliet Cohen writes article for Sty Treatment. She also writes articles for Makeup and Skin Care.