Sodium is a naturally occurring element that the human body requires to maintain good health. The most common form of sodium is sodium chloride, often called table salt. Sodium can be found in several other chemical complexes, including sodium benzoate, sodium nitrite, monosodium glutamate and sodium bicarbonate, also known as baking soda. The possible side effects of sodium often depend on the exact chemical formulation, although some effects are generally related to sodium alone.
Blood Pressure
A well-known adverse effect of excess sodium is high blood pressure. The recommended upper limit of sodium intake for healthy adults is 2.3 grams daily, which is roughly equivalent to the amount of sodium contained in 1 tsp. of salt, according to MedlinePlus. People diagnosed with high blood pressure should follow a low-sodium diet and consume no more than 1.5 g of sodium per day. Similarly, people with health conditions such as kidney disease, congestive heart failure and liver cirrhosis should also limit sodium intake to reduce the risks of high blood pressure.
Fluid Buildup
Ingesting high amounts of sodium, in the form of sodium chloride or other complexes, raises the concentration of sodium in the bloodstream. As the concentration of sodium rises, water tends to flow out of cells into the blood in order to balance the sodium concentration, explains the Linus Pauling Institute at Oregon State University. This increase in blood volume can lead to severe swelling, especially in people with preexisting health conditions that reduce the ability of body to excrete excess fluid.
Allergic Reaction
Treatment with sodium chloride, either as an injection or oral tablet, may lead to an allergic reaction in certain individuals. Early symptoms of an allergic reaction include rash, itching or hives; a tingling sensation or swelling in the mouth; and swelling of the hands and face, warns the University of Maryland Medical Center. More severe symptoms include tightness in the chest, chest pain, difficulty breathing, irregular heartbeat, fever and coughing up blood. Call emergency services immediately if you experience symptoms of a severe allergic reaction.
Other Side Effects
Oral ingestion of large doses of salt has been reported to cause nausea and vomiting, as well as abdominal cramps and diarrhea. Injections of sodium solutions may possibly lead to irritation or infection at the injection site. Use of nasal sodium sprays may lead to irritation or stinging of the nasal cavity.
References
- MedlinePlus: Sodium in Diet; David Zieve et al.; May 2010
- Linus Pauling Institute at Oregon State University: Sodium (Chloride); Jane Higdon et al.; November 2008
- Drugs.com: Sodium Chloride Solution; August 2011
- University of Michigan Health System: Saline Nasal Sprays & Irrigation; Melissa Pynnonen; February 2008
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Sodium Chloride (Injection); January 2010
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