How reports print it
NaNa+Натрий в сыворотке
What it shows
The main electrolyte of the fluid around cells; it reflects the balance of water and salt.
Units and conversion
Base unit: mmol/L.
- 1 mEq/L = 1 mmol/L
Typical ranges
Your laboratory’s range comes first — it is printed on the report next to the result. Below is one laboratory’s adult range with its method: a reference, not a rule.
| Who | Range, mmol/L |
|---|---|
| Adults | 136–145 |
Range source: Лаборатория Хеликс — Калий, натрий, хлор в сыворотке
Why it can be higher
Common reasons discussed with a doctor. This is not a diagnosis.
- Dehydration, drinking too little
- Heavy sweating
Why it can be lower
- Excess fluid, including a lot of water in a short time
- Diuretics and some other medicines
- Vomiting, diarrhoea
- Heart, kidney and liver conditions
What to ask a doctor
- How often should sodium be checked?
- Can my medicines affect sodium?
Whom to see
A GP or internist.