How to Treat Hypernatremia
Hypernatremia occurs when high levels of sodium accumulate in the blood due to dehydration. A condition that affects mostly the elderly and infants, untreated hypernatremia can lead to seizures, brain damage and death. Learn to treat hypernatremia to restore hydration.
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Instructions
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Find the underlying cause of hypernatremia. The severe dehydration associated with hypernatremia is usually found in people with a lack of a thirst response, who sweat profusely, who eat too much salt and who have diabetes insipidus. Those who have diarrhea, vomiting or take diuretics for kidney issues are also at risk.
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Treat the underlying cause of hypernatremia to stop its progression. For mild cases of dehydration, oral fluid intake is recommended. More serious cases of dehydration require IV fluids and special drugs formulated to help retain fluids.
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Monitor sodium levels in patients with hypernatremia. Blood draws that check sodium levels are taken often until the levels are in a normal range.
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Drink plenty of fluids to avoid hypernatremia. If you have little to no thirst response, drink fluids at a set time every hour to avoid dehydration.
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Tips & Warnings
Infants and elderly persons are at risk for hypernatremia. Keep infants and elderly sufficiently hydrated to avoid the disorder and watch for signs that could lead to dehydration.
Fluids need to be administered at the right pace to treat hypernatremia properly. If given too fast, cells become overloaded with fluids at a faster rate than they can dispose of the fluids, causing cerebral edema and even death. If fluids are given too slowly, severe dehydration continues and can lead to seizures and brain damage. Monitor the patient often to ensure proper hydration.
