Hyponatremia Disease Summary

Last updated: 18 July 2025

Overview

Hyponatremia is serum sodium concentration <135 mEq/L due to failure of normal water excretion.
Patients with hyponatremia are usually asymptomatic, however in severe cases,some may present with headache, fatigue, lethargy, nausea and vomiting, gait disturbances, forgetfulness, confusion, and muscle cramps.
Part of the diagnosis is the assessment of the volume status of the individual to help determine the underlying cause.
Hospital admission is required for acute and severe hyponatremia with an onset of <48 hours, serum sodium concentration <120 mEq/L and with symptoms of altered mental state and seizures.

For further information regarding the management of Hyponatremia, please refer to Disease Algorithm for the Treatment Guideline.