Many people think of sodium as the salt used as an additive, but when sodium is combined with chloride, the result is table salt. Sodium is also extremely important as an electrolyte within the body, which carries a small electrical charge and is responsible for the regulation of fluids into and out of the cells. Increased levels of sodium affect cell function, causing problems with almost all organ systems in the body.
Causes
High sodium levels, also called hypernatremia, can be caused by consumption of too much salt. In babies, this may occur when preparing homemade formulas or with the addition of table food in the diet. Hypernatremia may also occur when excess water is lost, such as with vomiting or diarrhea. Babies born prematurely may develop hypernatremia due to insensible water loss, which happens when moisture is lost through the fragile skin. A premature baby may also have underdeveloped kidney function, reducing his ability to remove excess sodium in the urine.
Levels
Normal sodium levels in the bloodstream are between 135 and 145 mEq per liter of blood. A diagnosis of hypernatremia can be made with a blood sodium level of over 150 mEq per liter. A baby may have blood drawn from a heel puncture or a vein in the arm; a process that collects a sample for analysis. Blood drawn from a baby is tested for sodium levels to confirm diagnosis and begin treatment.
Symptoms
A baby with hypernatremia may appear restless and agitated, with hyperactive muscle tone and nerve response, and some babies may develop seizures. High sodium levels put a baby at increased risk of developing bleeding on the brain, blood clots and kidney damage.
Treatment
Treatment of hypernatremia is aimed at adding fluids to balance the salt and water ratio. According to Merck, treatment includes administration of intravenous fluids to repair dehydration. Giving large amounts of fluids too quickly can result in fluid buildup on the brain. A baby with a sodium level higher than 200 mEq per liter may need dialysis to reduce levels before permanent damage results.
Prevention
Prevention of hypernatremia involves monitoring activity for situations that may cause an electrolyte imbalance. In newborns, ask for help when establishing breastfeeding, as dehydration can occur quickly, resulting in sodium imbalance. Monitor food intake for babies who eat table foods and avoid large amounts of processed and packaged foods for meals in young children. If your baby has diarrhea or vomiting, ensure she is drinking adequate fluids to restore electrolytes, and call your doctor if she is unable to keep fluids down.
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