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Warning Signs of a Salt Deficiency
Is salt healthy?
Sodium is an important electrolyte that helps to keep the water balance in and around your cells. It’s necessary for proper muscle and nerve function. It also aids in maintaining good blood pressure levels.
Hyponatremia is caused by an insufficient sodium level in your blood. When water and sodium are out of kilter, this occurs. To put it another way, there’s either too much water or not enough salt in your circulation.
Your sodium level is considered normal if it falls between 135 and 145 milliequivalents per liter. However, hyponatremia occurs when your sodium dips below 135 mEq/L.
What causes sodium deficiency?
A variety of factors can cause hyponatremia. For example, if your body loses too much water and electrolytes, your sodium levels may become dangerously low. Hyponatremia might also be an indication of a medical problem.
Causes of hyponatremia include:
- severe vomiting or diarrhea
- taking certain medications, including antidepressants and pain medications
- taking diuretics (water pills)
- drinking too much water during exercise (this is very rare)
- dehydration
