What is wrong if my sodium counts are low?

Answer by  akukla (55)

You have an electrolyte imbalance. This can be dietary, thyroid-related, medication-related or from many other health concerns. You should schedule an appointment with your M.D. to evaluate your personal situation.

Answer by  msbee (484)

Low sodium can relate to your thryoid glands, some people with low sodium and low iodine can develop goiters and need to increase iodine intake.

Answer by  jsmith (2067)

Assuming you aren't consuming way too much water, low sodium otherwise known as hyponatremia can be caused by hormonal imbalances such as Addison's disease or hypothyroidism, some prescription medications such as diuretics and some antidepressants, a too low sodium diet, or renal disorders. Extreme hyponatremia is a dangerous medical emergency.

Answer by  Travis404607 (3916)

The most common cause of a low sodium count is over-hydration, which can happen if one drinks a large amount of water after sweating excessively. Sweat contains sodium, and is a way to rid the body of it.

Answer by  cindy (1484)

If you sodium counts are low, this is because your body is retaining too much water. There are lots of different causes of this. Medications can do this as well as different neurological problems. Problems with the heart, kidneys, or liver are another way in which your body can be fluid overloaded.

Answer by  Jolie (1227)

It could be many things but basically you have an electrolyte imbalance. A main cause could be kidney,heart or liver issues. Certain medications could cause you to have this imbalance as well. There are also less problomatic things that can cause these issues such as diarhhea and sweating alot from excersise or other activities.

Answer by  RachelW (932)

If your sodium counts are low, you may be overhydrating. Low sodium can be dangerous because your body needs the sodium-potassium pump to be working correctly in order to support neural function. Without this, you body will not be able to function properly from head to toe. If your sodium counts are low, try to increase your sodium intake.

Answer by  jaimesgirl (1055)

If your sodium is low, it may be because you are taken diuretics (water pills) that lower your sodium. Your body may be having difficulty regulating your electrolyte (sodium, postassium, chloride, magnesium balance). Or you may have drank too much water in the hours before having a blood test for your sodium levels.