Sodium can be found outside of cells in most fluids in the body. An insufficient level of sodium in those fluids is a condition called hyponatremia. The body uses sodium for various functions, including maintaining blood pressure. Sodium is also needed for proper functioning of nerves and muscles. Low levels of sodium in the body pose several risks.
Brain Herniation
Brain herniation is one potential complication of hyponatremia. Bodies try to maintain an equilibrium of sodium in the bloodstream. When the level of sodium drops, water moves into cells in an attempt to maintain the balance of sodium. While most cells in the body can handle the excess water, cells in the brain cannot, because they are confined by the skull. The movement of water into cells in the brain causes brain swelling and could result in brain herniation, or the movement of brain tissue, which can lead to coma and death.
Hyponatremia Symptoms
The symptoms of hyponatremia include loss of appetite, fatigue, headaches, restlessness, irritability and convulsions. Nausea and vomiting can also result, and there can be weakness in muscles, muscle spasms and cramps. Hyponatremia can also lead to altered mental states, which can include confusion, hallucinations and decreased consciousness.
Underlying Condition
Hyponatremia in older adults who have become ill could be an indication of an underlying condition that is age-related, according to MayoClinic.com. These include an underactive thyroid, which is a condition called hypothyroidism; Addison's disease, which affects the adrenal gland; and failure of the liver, kidney or heart. Older adults can also develop hyponatremia from drinking excessive amounts of water, urinating less frequently or taking certain medications, such as diuretics, pain medications and antidepressants.
Acute Hyponatremia
The risk of low sodium in the bloodstream is more severe when the levels fall quickly, within 48 hours. This situation is called acute hyponatremia. When the levels fall more slowly -- over a period of days or weeks -- the brain cells have sufficient time to adjust, and swelling is minimized.
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