Sodium
- Sample Type
- Standard
- Fasting
- No
- Unit
- mmol/L
Sodium is the primary extracellular cation and is critical for maintaining osmotic pressure, fluid balance, and transmembrane potential for nerve and muscle function. In the Serum Electrolyte panel, it is the most important indicator of water balance versus solute balance in the body.
Check Your Result
Check Your Result
Enter your lab result to see where you stand compared to the standard reference range.
Why Context Matters
Sodium levels can be misleading in cases of 'pseudohyponatremia' (caused by very high lipids or proteins) or hyperglycemia. Treatment of sodium imbalances must be cautious, as correcting levels too rapidly can cause irreversible neurological damage (osmotic demyelination syndrome).
Lab ranges are statistical averages, not biological laws. "Normal" for a 20-year-old male isn't normal for a 60-year-old female.
Clinical References
Source-of-truth databases and clinical guidelines for Sodium:
Official Sources
- Hyponatraemia-treatment standard 2024 - PubMedpubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- Treatment of hyponatremia: comprehension and best clinical practice - PMCpmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
Research & Guidelines
- PubMed: Sodium Clinical GuidelinesNCBI / PubMed
Related Indicators
Medically Reviewed by Dr. Binoy Babu, MBBS
Board Certified Doctor • 10+ Years Clinical Experience
Dr. Babu is a practicing physician dedicated to empowering patients with clear, actionable medical information. He founded 2opi to bridge the gap between complex lab reports and patient understanding, ensuring everyone has access to a reliable second opinion.
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