# Sodium

> Sodium as a blood biomarker significantly influences several bodily functions. When maintained within its physiological range, sodium ensures proper nerve 

*Source: [https://www.health3.app/biomarkers/sodium](https://www.health3.app/biomarkers/sodium)*

### On This Page

- What it measures
- Measurement units
- Reference ranges
- Health impact
- Related biomarkers
- Scientific references

## What is Sodium?

Sodium as a blood biomarker significantly influences several bodily functions. When maintained within its physiological range, sodium ensures proper nerve and muscle function, aids in maintaining fluid balance across cell membranes, and plays a vital role in the functioning of the heart and brain. It is also essential for the absorption and transport of certain nutrients and maintains the osmotic balance critical for cell health.

**Hyponatremia**, or low blood sodium, can result from various conditions like kidney disease, heart failure, or excessive fluid intake. This condition can lead to neurological symptoms such as headache, confusion, and fatigue, progressing to more severe complications like seizures, coma, and potentially life-threatening brain swelling. Hyponatremia affects cellular function and fluid balance, disrupting normal physiological processes.

**Hypernatremia**, or high blood sodium, often results from dehydration or excessive salt intake and can impair kidney function. This condition manifests as intense thirst, confusion, muscle weakness, and in severe cases, can cause neurological damage and is associated with a higher risk of mortality. Hypernatremia disrupts cellular homeostasis, leading to complications in various organ systems.

**Factors that support healthy blood sodium** levels:

- Adequate hydration from drinking water throughout the day is helpful
- A balanced diet with mindful sodium intake, especially from processed and packaged foods, is supportive
- Caution with salt substitutes and supplements containing sodium is advisable
- Managing underlying health conditions that may affect sodium levels, such as kidney disease or heart failure, is important

## Measurement Units

Sodium can be measured in: mEq/L, mmol/L

## Reference Ranges by Age and Gender

Reference ranges represent typical values for healthy individuals. Your healthcare provider must interpret your specific results.

| Age Range | Gender | Unit | Optimal | Normal | Source |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| All ages | All genders | mmol/L | - | 135 - 145 | NHS, n.d. |

## Related Biomarkers

- [**Potassium**](https://www.health3.app/biomarkers/potassium)

 Sodium and potassium work together to maintain fluid balance and regulate blood pressure[Adrogue, 2007].

 High sodium intake can lead to increased potassium excretion, potentially causing hypokalemia (low blood potassium levels) [Penton, 2015].

 Conversely, high potassium intake can help counteract the effects of high sodium intake on blood pressure [Aburto, 2013].

## Related tools

- [**Blood Test Unit Converter**](https://www.health3.app/tools/blood-test-unit-converter)

## Academic References

1. Allolio B., Annane D., Ball S., Bichet D., Nagler E., Spasovski G., and Vanholder R.. Clinical practice guideline on diagnosis and treatment of hyponatraemia (2014). *European Journal of Endocrinology*. [DOI: 10.1530/EJE-13-1020](https://doi.org/10.1530/EJE-13-1020)
2. NHS The Pathology Centre.. Urea & electrolytes (U&E) - Sodium, potassium, chloride, CO2, urea and creatinine. *National Health Service*. [View Source](https://www.thepathologycentre.org/test/urea-electrolytes-ue-sodium-potassium-chloride-co2-urea-and-creatinine/)
3. Berry DJ, Cashman KD, Dainty JR, Fairweather-Tait SJ, Flynn A, Foxall RJ, Hoogewerff JA, Jakobsen J, Majsak-Newman G, Spinks CA, and Teucher B. Sodium and bone health: impact of moderately high and low salt intakes on calcium metabolism in postmenopausal women (2008). *J Bone Miner Res*. [DOI: 10.1359/jbmr.080408](https://doi.org/10.1359/jbmr.080408)

### ⚠️ Important Medical Information

This reference page is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Reference ranges vary between laboratories. Always review your lab results with a qualified healthcare provider.