The body needs just the right amount of sodium for the proper functioning of cells, including muscle and nerves. Sodium also plays a role in blood pressure. When sodium levels increase in the body, which is a condition referred to as hypernatremia, severe consequences may occur. The symptoms range from mild to severe. Reducing sodium levels is important to prevent permanent damage to nerves cells. Recognizing the signs of high sodium is important so treatment can begin before serious complications occur.
Dehydration is the main cause of hypernatremia. Decreased water intake, sweating too much and illnesses such as diarrhea and vomiting can cause dehydration. Using diuretic medications, commonly used to help control high blood pressure levels, may also cause low sodium levels as the body flushes sodium out in urine, according to The Merck Manual for Health Care Professionals. Medical conditions, such as diabetes and kidney disease increase the risk of developing dehydration and high sodium levels.
The symptoms of high sodium levels may vary depending on certain factors. Chronic dehydration may cause fewer hypernatremia symptoms than conditions causing sodium to increase quickly, according to The Merck Manual for Health Care Professionals. The brain has the ability to adjust to the chronic dehydration better and swelling in brain cells is less severe for people with chronic dehydration than hypernatremia that is caused by an acute factor.
Most often, thirst is the first recognizable sign of dehydration, which will cause increased sodium levels. For mild dehydration, If a person drinks fluids to relieve the thirst, the sodium levels may return to normal, notes the University of Maryland Medical Center. People with limited ability to notice thirst and people with limited access to water, such as bed-bound patients, are more at risk of dehydration. Along with thirst, a dry mouth and nose may occur for people with high sodium levels.
Damage to Nervous System
As sodium levels continue to rise, more symptoms may occur, such as muscle and nerve damage, symptoms of which include muscle twitches and seizure activity. As the damage from sodium levels continues to worsen, a person may experience feelings of drowsiness and confusion. Finally, a coma and death may occur without proper treatment.
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