Sodium chloride is a medication that is available in many strengths and used for drug dilution, intravenous flushes and intravenous administration. This drug commonly is used to replace fluids in patients who might be dehydrated and to replace sodium and/or chloride in patients who have electrolyte imbalances. Sodium chloride usually is administered in a hospital or clinic but can be prescribed for home administration in rare circumstances. There are few side effects of sodium chloride, but you should notify your physician immediately if you feel that you are having a reaction.
Fever
During or after receiving an intravenous injection of sodium chloride, you might develop a mild fever, according to Drugs.com. This side effect usually is a result of your body trying to return to normal fluid and electrolyte states. Fever generally is a fleeting side effect of sodium chloride treatment but your physician will be able to monitor your condition to determine if any additional treatments are needed.
Thrombosis
A physician or nurse must insert an intravenous catheter into a peripheral vein to administer sodium chloride solution. In rare instances, a piece of the catheter might break off in the vein, causing a venous thrombosis, according to Drugs.com. If you have a venous thrombosis, you might experience pain, redness and swelling at the insertion site. A physician will need to remove any foreign objects from the vein if this occurs.
Phlebitis
Some people experience phlebitis during sodium chloride therapy. Phlebitis is inflammation and swelling of the tissues around the IV insertion site, and the likelihood of developing phlebitis increases as the strength of the sodium chloride and rate of infusion are increased. You also might notice what appears to be a red line running down the length of the vein that the IV infusion is in. Phlebitis is easy to treat, so notify your physician if you notice these symptoms.
Hypernatremia
Hypernatremia is an excess amount of sodium in the blood. Sodium is a key electrolyte used throughout the body in various organ systems. Excess levels of sodium particularly affect the heart and kidneys, according to Drugs.com. Hypernatremia is more likely to occur after highly concentrated or very rapid infusions. If hypernatremia occurs, your physician will order medications and fluids to flush out excess sodium from your body.
Fluid Overload
After prolonged or rapid infusion of sodium chloride, fluid overload might occur, according to the Food and Drug Administration. Fluid overload is simply excessive fluids in the body. This state can cause cell damage and electrolyte imbalances. Your physician will be able to evaluate your condition and determine the best treatment option, which normally includes a diuretic to rid your body of these excess fluids.
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