When your blood sodium drops too low, you have hyponatremia, a condition where sodium levels fall below 135 mmol/L, disrupting fluid balance and nerve function. Also known as low sodium, it’s not rare—especially in older adults, people on certain meds, or those with heart, kidney, or liver issues. Sodium isn’t just table salt—it’s a key player in keeping your cells hydrated, your nerves firing, and your muscles working right. When levels slip, you might feel dizzy, nauseous, confused, or even have seizures. It’s not always obvious, which is why it’s often missed until it’s serious.
Many of the drugs you take daily can quietly pull sodium down. diuretics, medications that make you pee more to reduce fluid buildup. Also known as water pills, they’re common for high blood pressure and swelling, but they’re also the top cause of hyponatremia in older patients. Loop diuretics like furosemide and thiazides like hydrochlorothiazide flush out sodium along with water. Then there’s SSRIs, antidepressants that can trigger a hormone imbalance leading to water retention. Also known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, they’re linked to SIADH—a condition where your body holds onto too much water, diluting sodium. Even some pain meds, seizure drugs, and chemotherapy agents can mess with sodium. And if you’re drinking too much water during a marathon, or have adrenal or thyroid problems, that adds fuel to the fire.
What’s scary is that hyponatremia doesn’t always scream for attention. Mild cases might just make you feel off—fatigued, clumsy, or forgetful. But if sodium drops fast, it can lead to brain swelling, coma, or death. That’s why doctors check sodium levels regularly in people on long-term meds or with chronic illnesses. The fix isn’t always just adding salt—it’s often about stopping the wrong drug, cutting back on fluids, or treating the root cause. And if you’re on diuretics or antidepressants, knowing the signs could save your life.
Below, you’ll find real-world guides on how medications like diuretics, blood thinners, and hormone drugs connect to sodium balance. These aren’t theoretical—they’re based on actual patient cases, drug interactions, and clinical monitoring. Whether you’re managing a condition yourself or helping someone who is, this collection gives you the facts you need to spot trouble before it gets serious.
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