Hyponatremia in the emergency department

Am J Emerg Med. 2022 Oct:60:1-8. doi: 10.1016/j.ajem.2022.07.023. Epub 2022 Jul 19.

Abstract

Hyponatremia, defined as a serum sodium <135 mmol/L, is frequently encountered in patients presenting to the emergency department. Symptoms are often unspecific and include a recent history of falls, weakness and vertigo. Common causes of hyponatremia include diuretics, heart failure as well as Syndrome of Inappropriate Antidiuresis (SIAD) and correct diagnosis can be challenging. Emergency treatment of hyponatremia should be guided by presence of symptoms and focus on distinguishing between acute and chronic hyponatremia.

Keywords: Electrolytes; Emergency; Hyponatremia; Sodium.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Diuretics / therapeutic use
  • Emergency Service, Hospital
  • Humans
  • Hyponatremia* / diagnosis
  • Hyponatremia* / etiology
  • Hyponatremia* / therapy
  • Inappropriate ADH Syndrome* / complications
  • Inappropriate ADH Syndrome* / diagnosis
  • Inappropriate ADH Syndrome* / therapy
  • Sodium

Substances

  • Diuretics
  • Sodium