A STUDY OF CLINICAL AND BIOCHEMICAL PROFILE OF HYPONATREMIA IN HOSPITALIZED PATIENTS

Abstract

Background: Hyponatremia represents the most prevalent electrolyte disorder, constituting approximately 22% of all such cases. It is a significant contributor to morbidity and mortality within intensive care units in India, although comprehensive data are scarce. This study aims to assess the causes and in-hospital outcomes of admitted ward patients with hyponatremia.
Methods: A detailed standard proforma was employed to document each patient’s current complaints and past medical history, including conditions like diabetes mellitus, systemic hypertension, ischemic heart disease, dyslipidemia, neurological issues, chronic kidney or renal disease, and any regulatory or endocrine disorders. Results: The most common treatment approach involved a combination of Normal Saline (NS) and Diuretics (33 patients, 41.3%). This suggests that correcting volume depletion and promoting fluid excretion were crucial aspects of therapy in many cases. 3% saline administration, either alone (24 patients) or combined with diuretics (1 patient), represents another frequently used strategy (31.25% of patients). This indicates a need for more aggressive sodium level correction in some patients. Conclusion: This study demonstrates a significant burden of symptomatic hyponatremia in hospitalized patients, frequently manifesting with neurological symptoms. Syndrome of Inappropriate Antidiuretic Hormone Secretion (SIADH) emerged as the predominant etiology, typically presenting with euvolemic hyponatremia. Diuretic use and endocrine dysfunction were identified as recurrent contributory factors.