SODIUM

A sodium blood test measures the blood level of sodium. Sodium is a vital electrolyte, which contributes to the balance of water and supports the nerve and muscle activity of the body. It is critical in diagnosing and managing conditions that involve either too little or too much sodium like dehydration, kidney problems, and heart failure.

A sodium blood test determines the concentration of sodium ions in the blood. The results are usually expressed in milliequivalents per liter (mEq/L).

Sodium blood tests are blood tests that are useful when carried out:

• During a routine health check at the physician's office.
• When a patient is suspected of suffering from conditions which affect sodium levels - dehydration, kidney failure, heart failure and so on.
• When the effectiveness of medication used for conditions which affect sodium levels is to be checked.
• When volatile electrolytes could be the reason behind muscle weakness, disorientation, or chicken epilepsy.

The sodium blood test is a safe procedure without any major concern but:

• Patients may complain of bleeding or bruising at the site of restricted movement.
• The area where the blood was taken runs the risk of infection or swelling.
• Diabetes mellitus and other underlying conditions like hyperchloremic metabolic acidosis may cause the results to appear falsely normal (sodium rejection).
• Other assessments, like sodium in urine tests, may need to be performed to exclude or accept some diseases.

These parameters are examined too:

• Sodium concentration in the blood expressed as milliequivalents per litre(mEq/L)
• Potassium level results, since the sodium-potassium ratio is also helpful in the diagnosis of some conditions.

• Patients with muscle weakness, confusion, and seizures
• Patients with conditions which cause alterations to sodium levels, for example kidney disease, heart failure, or liver disease
• Patients on specific drugs such as diuretics or laxatives which could influence sodium
• Athletes or strenuous workers who are likely to be dehydrated

• Aid in the diagnosis or monitoring of conditions associated with altered sodium levels.
• Detect symptoms based missing electrolyte components.
• Study the methods of treatment and its effects on the sodium level condition.
• Assess general health and show where risks exist.

This test will improve diagnosis of;

• Dehydration
• Kidney disease
• Heart failure
• Liver disease
• Electrolyte imbalance

No specific preparation is necessary; however, an 8 hour fast might be suggested.

Prerequisites: None.

Eligibility: No age restrictions.

Procedure of taking the test: A qualified nurse will use a needle to draw a sample of blood from a vein in your arm.

Caution before the test: Check with your healthcare provider regarding any medications you might be taking as certain drugs can interfere with the sodium levels.