When there is less sodium in the blood than usual, the disease known as low sodium level, or hyponatremia, develops. An electrolyte called sodium aids in controlling the body's water and other material balance. Many symptoms and problems, including nausea, vomiting, headaches, disorientation, and even coma, can be brought on by low salt levels. Many conditions, including diabetes treatment, drugs, infections, and food habits, can result in low sodium levels. Treatment options for low sodium levels include glucose, medicine, and lifestyle modifications, contingent on the underlying cause and severity.
Low sodium level can be caused by several factors, such as the following:
Diabetes treatment, especially insulin or oral medications that lower blood sugar, such as sulfonylureas or meglitinides. These medications can cause low sodium level if they are taken in excess, skipped or delayed meals, or exercised too much.
Other medications, such as antibiotics, antihistamines, antidepressants, antipsychotics, or diuretics, that can affect the blood sugar levels or interact with diabetes medications.
Infections or illnesses, such as viral or bacterial infections, that can increase the body’s demand for glucose or impair the liver’s ability to produce glucose.
Hormonal disorders, such as adrenal insufficiency, hypothyroidism, or pituitary deficiency, that can reduce the production or action of hormones that regulate blood sugar, such as cortisol, thyroid hormone, or growth hormone.
Alcohol consumption, especially on an empty stomach, that can inhibit the liver’s ability to produce glucose and increase the risk of low sodium level.
Dietary factors, such as fasting, skipping meals, eating too few carbohydrates, or having a gastric bypass surgery, that can reduce the intake or absorption of glucose.
The symptoms of low sodium level can vary depending on the individual, the cause, and the severity of the condition. Some common symptoms include:
Nausea and vomiting
Headache
Confusion
Loss of energy, drowsiness and fatigue
Restlessness and irritability
Muscle weakness, spasms or cramps
Seizures
Coma
A laboratory test or the use of a glucose meter to measure blood glucose can be used to identify low sodium levels. When blood glucose falls below 70 mg/dL (3.9 mmol/L), it is deemed low and has to be treated right away. Nonetheless, some individuals could have varying sensitivities for low sodium levels and might exhibit symptoms at greater or lower concentrations. As a result, it's critical to speak with a physician and establish a personalized blood glucose goal range. Other tests, such an A1c hemoglobin test, a fructosamine test, or a C-peptide test, may also be prescribed by the doctor to monitor the pancreatic production of insulin, the average blood glucose level over time, or the efficacy of diabetes medication.
Treatment for low sodium levels varies depending on the cause, symptoms, and blood glucose levels. The primary objective is to normalize blood glucose levels and prevent recurring instances of low sodium. Treatment options encompass:
Glucose: The quickest and most efficient method for addressing low sodium levels. Glucose can be consumed in different forms like tablets, gels, liquids, or candies, each containing 15 to 20 grams of carbohydrates. Blood glucose levels should be monitored 15 minutes post-glucose intake and repeated until normalized. Persistent symptoms or sustained low blood glucose levels necessitate immediate medical attention.
Medications: Utilizing glucagon, a hormone prompting the liver to release glucose into the bloodstream, is an option. In cases of severe low sodium resulting in unconsciousness or seizures, glucagon can be administered via injection by a trained individual, such as a family member or friend. Following glucagon administration, a carbohydrate-rich snack or meal is crucial to prevent blood glucose levels from plummeting again.
Lifestyle adjustments: Incorporating regular meals and snacks containing sufficient carbohydrates, protein, and fat is essential. Additionally, limiting alcohol consumption, closely monitoring blood glucose levels, adjusting diabetes treatment as needed, and carrying a source of glucose or a glucagon kit at all times are recommended lifestyle changes.
Some cases of low sodium level can be prevented or reduced by taking some preventive measures, such as the following:
Following the doctor’s instructions and dosages for diabetes medications and other medications that can affect blood sugar levels
Checking the blood glucose level before and after meals, exercise, or other activities that can affect blood sugar levels
Eating a balanced and nutritious diet that provides enough carbohydrates, protein, and fat, and avoiding foods that are high in sugar, salt, or fat
Exercising regularly and moderately, and adjusting the diabetes treatment or the carbohydrate intake before, during, or after exercise
Drinking plenty of water and staying hydrated, especially during hot weather or illness
Managing stress and practicing relaxation techniques, such as meditation, yoga, or breathing exercises
Educating yourself and others about the signs, symptoms, and treatment of low sodium level, and wearing a medical alert bracelet or necklace that identifies you as having diabetes
