Sodium Deficiency & Seizures

Sodium deficiency, also known as hyponatremia, is when the levels of sodium in the blood are dangerously low. Normal levels of sodium in the blood are important for maintaining blood pressure and for nerve and muscle cells to function correctly. Sodium is also important in the regulation of body fluids. There are many possible causes of sodium deficiency, some of which are linked to disease, and low levels of the electrolyte can be potentially life threatening. Therefore, recognizing the symptoms of sodium deficiency, as well as avoiding potential causes, can be extremely valuable.

Symptoms of Sodium Deficiency

Symptoms of sodium deficiency include confusion, decreased consciousness, hallucinations and possible coma. Other symptoms include seizures, fatigue, headache, irritability, loss of appetite, muscle spasm or cramps, muscle weakness, restlessness, nausea and vomiting. The severity and presence of these symptoms become more established with continued reduction in sodium levels. Patients often present with sodium deficiency due to underlying medical conditions and these individuals frequently display other symptoms specific to their disorder

Causes of Sodium Deficiency

Sodium deficiency is caused by one of three conditions: euvolemic hyponatremia, hypervolemic hyponatremia and hypovolemic hyponatremia. Euvolemic hyponatremia is when the volume of water in the body increases but the sodium level stays the same. This dilutes the sodium in the blood, decreasing its concentration. Hypervolemic hyponatremia is when both water and sodium levels rise, but the increase in water content is greater. Hypovolemic hyponatremia is the opposite of this, when water and sodium are lost from the body, but the loss of sodium is greater. These conditions can be brought about by a number of medical problems, including burns, heart failure, diarrhea, diuretic medications, sweating and vomiting. Disease is also a major cause of sodium deficiency, especially those that cause hormonal imbalances and diseases of the kidneys and liver.

Groups at Risk from Sodium Deficiency

There are many factors that can lead to an increased risk of hyponatremia. The elderly are prone to sodium deficiency due to age-related changes in their metabolism, as well as an increased likelihood of contracting diseases that contribute to low sodium levels. Those with a low sodium diet are also at risk of developing sodium deficiency, particularly if combined with the intake of beverages that lead to fluid loss, such as alcohol. Athletes are also particularly vulnerable to sodium deficiency, which can develop in one of two ways. Athletes who take in too much water before competition can dilute their sodium levels to dangerous levels. Opposite to this, those who do not take in enough water can lose too much sodium through dehydration.

Seizures Caused by Sodium Deficiency

When sodium levels are too low, water moves from the blood into cells, causing the cells to swell. Most cells in the body are able to cope with this swelling, but brain cells cannot. The brain occupies a confined space inside the skull and swelling of the brain cells causes a build-up of pressure. Increased pressure inside the skull can lead to neurological problems, including seizures. In the most severe cases, brain swelling can cause compression of the brain stem, which is responsible for many of the body's vital functions, leading to death.

Prevention and Treatment for Sodium Deficiency

Individuals who take part in high-energy sports should use drinks containing electrolytes, such as sodium. Drinking water alone can lead to mild hyponatremia.

Treatments for sodium deficiency are predominantly aimed at the underlying cause. For example, patients with liver or kidney disease will receive drugs for their particular condition, which should cure their hyponatremia as a result. Other treatments include intravenous administration of saline and water restriction.