A key electrolyte that regulates fluid balance and nerve function.
Sodium is the main electrolyte in the fluid outside your cells. It controls the body's water balance, blood volume and blood pressure, and supports nerve and muscle function.
This test measures sodium in serum or plasma. The value reflects sodium in the extracellular fluid, the compartment outside your cells, which is the standard measurement used to assess sodium and water balance.
Sodium and water move together, so the blood sodium level is largely a measure of how concentrated or diluted your body fluids are. The kidneys and hormones such as ADH and aldosterone keep it stable.
A high level usually reflects water loss or dehydration. A low level is common and can come from excess water, certain medications, heart, liver or kidney conditions, and may cause confusion or headaches.
Aniva reads your result against research-backed ranges, not just the lab's wide normal. The reference shown below is specific to this biomarker.
| Measure | Adult range (SI) |
|---|---|
| Sodium, serum | 135 to 145 mmol/L |
Ranges are guidance and vary by lab. Cite your laboratory's reference interval.
Very high blood fats or protein can cause a falsely low sodium on some analysers (pseudohyponatraemia). High blood glucose lowers measured sodium. Diuretics, antidepressants and intravenous fluids shift true values. Sample handling errors can interfere.
Read with potassium, chloride, bicarbonate, glucose and kidney function (creatinine, eGFR).
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