Definition

Hypernatremia is when there is too much sodium in the body.

Causes

Hypernatremia happens when there is an imbalance in the amount of water and sodium in the body—too little water for the amount of sodium.

The main cause of hypernatremia is having more water leave your body than enter it. This causes dehydration. A person can become dehydrated in different ways, such as:

• Drinking too little fluids
• Excessive sweating

Risk Factors

Hypernatremia is more common in older adults. Other factors that may increase your chance of hypernatremia include:

• Fever
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Using certain diuretics —medications that increase urination
• Severe burns
• Losing too much fluid by sweating
• Having certain medical conditions such as central diabetes insipidus or kidney disorder

Symptoms

Hypernatremia may cause:

• Being thirsty
• Dry mouth
• Muscle weakness or muscle cramps
• Decreased urination
• Weight loss
• Lightheadedness
• Irritability
• Confusion
• Muscle twitching

Untreated hypernatremia can be fatal.

Dry Mouth Dry mouth is a symptom of hypernatremia. Copyright © Nucleus Medical Media, Inc.

Diagnosis

You will be asked about your symptoms and medical history. You will be asked about your fluid intake and urine output. A physical exam will be done.

Your bodily fluids may be tested. This can be done with:

• Blood tests
• Urine tests

Treatment

Prevention

To help reduce your chance of getting hypernatremia:

• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of the fluids
• Work with your doctor to manage any health conditions