Diagnose Hyponatremia
Hyponatremia is an imbalance of salt levels in the blood brought on by drinking too much fluid. It is a result of over-hydration. Hyponatremia occurs in patients with other conditions that cause them to retain fluid or in athletes in high-activity sports. Drinking too much dilutes salt levels in the body. When the salt level imbalance becomes too great, it causes vomiting, headaches and extreme fatigue.
Instructions
1. Evaluate your risk before trying to diagnose hyponatremia. Marathon runners, people on low-sodium diets and women over 30 are most likely to contract hyponatremia.
2. Note sudden-onset symptoms, such as vomiting, weakness or confusion, following heavy physical activity. Severe symptoms may include muscle spasms, seizures or loss of consciousness.
3. Identify gradual-onset symptoms. Repeated headaches, fatigue, nausea or loss of appetite unrelated to another health problem may indicate hyponatremia. Keep a chart of your physical activity and note the symptoms and dates of recurrence to discern a pattern.
4. Share your medical history and exercise or training program details with your doctor. Answer questions at the exam to determine possible causes. Your diet, medications or other health issues may be behind your hyponatremia symptoms.
5. Get a blood or urine test. This is the only conclusive way to diagnose hyponatremia. Your doctor will base your treatment on your medical history and the severity of your confirmed case.
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