⚖️ Electrolytes & Minerals

Sodium: What It Means for Your Health

Sodium is the primary electrolyte in the fluid outside your cells (extracellular fluid) and plays a critical role in maintaining fluid balance, blood pressure, nerve impulse transmission, and muscle contraction. Your kidneys tightly regulate sodium levels. Even small deviations from normal can cause significant symptoms. Sodium disorders are among the most common electrolyte abnormalities in clinical medicine.

Full Name
Serum Sodium (Na+)
Normal Range
136–145 mEq/L
Also Known As
Na, Na+

Reference Range

LowNormal: 136–145 mEq/LHigh

Reference ranges may vary between laboratories, age groups, and sexes. The values shown are general adult reference ranges. Always compare your results to the specific range provided by your testing laboratory.

What Is Sodium?

Sodium is the primary electrolyte in the fluid outside your cells (extracellular fluid) and plays a critical role in maintaining fluid balance, blood pressure, nerve impulse transmission, and muscle contraction. Your kidneys tightly regulate sodium levels. Even small deviations from normal can cause significant symptoms. Sodium disorders are among the most common electrolyte abnormalities in clinical medicine.

Commonly included in:

Basic Metabolic Panel (BMP)Electrolyte PanelComprehensive Metabolic Panel

What Does High Sodium Mean?

Above 145 mEq/L

Elevated sodium (hypernatremia, above 145 mEq/L) usually indicates dehydration or water loss exceeding sodium loss. Causes include inadequate water intake, excessive sweating, diabetes insipidus, diarrhea, certain medications, and excessive sodium intake. Symptoms include extreme thirst, confusion, muscle twitching, and seizures. Severe hypernatremia is a medical emergency.

What Does Low Sodium Mean?

Below 136 mEq/L

Low sodium (hyponatremia, below 136 mEq/L) is the most common electrolyte disorder. Causes include excessive water intake, heart failure, liver cirrhosis, kidney disease, SIADH (syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone), and certain medications (diuretics, SSRIs). Symptoms include nausea, headache, confusion, and in severe cases, seizures and coma.

Related Biomarkers in Electrolytes & Minerals

Potassium
Essential electrolyte for heart rhythm, muscle function, and nerve signaling.
Range: 3.5–5 mEq/L
Calcium
Essential mineral for bones, teeth, muscle contraction, and nerve function.
Range: 8.5–10.5 mg/dL
Magnesium
Essential mineral involved in over 300 enzymatic reactions in the body.
Range: 1.7–2.2 mg/dL
Phosphorus
Mineral important for bones, teeth, energy production, and DNA.
Range: 2.5–4.5 mg/dL
Zinc
Essential trace mineral for immune function, wound healing, and taste/smell.
Range: 60–120 ug/dL

Track Your Sodium Over Time

Upload your blood test results to Hemoly and see how your Sodium levels change over time. Get trend analysis, educational insights, and a personal health timeline.

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Medical Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Reference ranges may vary between laboratories. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for interpretation of your blood test results and before making any health decisions.