Sodium

A Sodium test is used to measure the amount of sodium, an electrolyte, in your body. This test is performed to evaluate your overall health and as a follow-up to ongoing conditions like high blood pressure. It is often done as part of routine health checkups.

Sodium is an important electrolyte present in all body fluids. It performs functions like controlling the amount of fluid in your body and balancing the body's pH level. It also helps your nerves and muscles to work properly. Therefore, an optimal amount of sodium is essential for regular body functioning. Deviation in sodium levels can cause hypernatremia (high amount of sodium) or hyponatremia (low amount of sodium), which may need a doctor’s attention.

Your doctor may advise a Sodium test if you experience symptoms such as weakness, fatigue, excessive thirst, decrease in the frequency of urination, muscle spasm and cramps, irritability, confusion, and seizures. This test may be used to investigate the cause of dehydration and generalized body swelling. It can also be advised if your blood pressure is not well-controlled. Usually, no special preparation is required for a Sodium test; eat and drink as per your daily routine.

Test result ranges are approximate and may differ slightly between different labs depending on the methodology and laboratory guidelines. Talk to your doctor about your specific test results. Narrate your complete medical history to help the doctor correlate your clinical and laboratory findings. The test results will help them determine your medical condition, make recommendations for lifestyle modifications such as diet and exercise, decide whether or not medication will be required to manage your health, and formulate your overall treatment plan.