Sodium Test

Sodium Blood Test

Are you aware that sodium levels can affect your body's pH balance? You heard it right: sodium is an electrolyte that controls the body's fluid, playing an essential role in the proper functioning of muscles and nerves. You can get sodium from your daily intake of food. The kidney tries to get rid of extra sodium through urine. Also, you might be suffering from kidney issues if the sodium level is too high or low in the blood. 

Salt is the primary source of sodium. The recent clinical data showed that Indians consume 11g of salt daily, higher than the WHO recommended intake of 5 g per day. It increases the risk of cardiac attack, stroke, and hypertension. The other reasons for sodium imbalance include diabetes, kidney disorders, consumption of IV fluids, intake of excess or little salt, and diuretics that reduce the amount of fluid, among others. A sodium test is a routine test that checks the balance of electrolytes and fluids in your body.

Signs and symptoms

Signs of high sodium levels that call for Medical Assistance

• Less urination
• Thirst
• Muscle twitching
• Confusion
• Diarrhea
• Vomiting
• Seizures

Signs of low sodium levels

• Fatigue
• Weakness
• Muscle twitching
• Confusion
• Seizures

You might be wondering why there is a need to maintain sodium levels in the blood. Experts say that high or low levels signify severe various health conditions. Therefore, it is a must to get tested regularly. 

Higher than normal Sodium levels indicate conditions:

• Kidney disorder
• Dehydration 
• Disorder of the adrenal gland
• Diabetes Insipidus

Lower than normal Sodium levels indicate conditions:

• Heart failure
• Liver cirrhosis
• Kidney diseases
• Lung & brain diseases
• Malnutrition
• Addison disease

The Sodium blood test supports the clinician to monitor health conditions and provides treatment accordingly. The clinician will ask you to go for the test in the following situations:

• Consumed excess salt
• Taken enough water
• Serious illness
• Undergone surgery
• Received intravenous fluids
• Monitor the therapeutic action of medicines like diuretics

Tips for reducing the sodium intake in the diet

The quick tips can help to maintain sodium levels in the body. You must follow them for the prevention of serious health concerns. 

• Buy foods low on sodium- Reduce the consumption of processed foods like tortillas and bread. Limit the use of sauces, condiments, and dressings. Also, the intake of processed meats and instant-flavored foods like noodles must be decreased.
• Check the label- Check nutrition facts to know the amount of sodium in food. Always go for labels like “low sodium” or “no salt added.”
• Swap foods high in Sodium, like select unsalted nuts, with salted chips. Cook fresh or frozen chicken, seafood, or lean meat over deli meat or sausages.
• Cook at home- Preparing your meals at home is a great way to consume less sodium. 
• Prefer less salt while eating outside- You may ask for low-sodium dishes on the menu and not to add salt to the food. 
• Include potassium in your diet- Always try to replace high-sodium foods with high-potassium items. Intake of high-potassium foods such as bananas, potatoes, cantaloupe, beans, yogurt, and milk help to maintain normal sodium levels.

Test Details

Why take a Serum sodium test from Redcliffe Labs?

High or low sodium levels in the blood may lead to fatalities and coma. Hence, it is a must to check your sodium levels. The test can be scheduled from Redcliffe Labs, as the booking can be made in just one minute. Also, you get the benefit of home sample collection and timely availability of accurate reports. Moreover, the sodium test price is quite reasonable as you get huge discounts on ordering it from our website. 

The Sodium blood test is required to monitor its level in the body. Keeping an optimum level is essential for overall health and improving quality of life. You must follow various tips to maintain the necessary sodium level in the body.