What to do for hypernatremia (elevated Sodium (Na) level) of 174?

From the Research

If your sodium level is 174, you need immediate medical attention as this is a dangerously high level (severe hypernatremia). Go to the emergency room right away. Treatment typically involves careful administration of intravenous fluids to gradually lower sodium levels, as correcting it too quickly can cause brain swelling and serious neurological complications 1. The medical team will likely use hypotonic fluids like 5% dextrose in water or half-normal saline, carefully calculating the rate of correction to not exceed 8-10 mEq/L per day. They will also identify and treat the underlying cause, which could be severe dehydration, diabetes insipidus, excessive sodium intake, or certain medications. Symptoms of severe hypernatremia include extreme thirst, confusion, muscle twitching, seizures, and can progress to coma. This is a medical emergency that requires hospital treatment with close monitoring of fluid status, electrolytes, and neurological function. Some key points to consider in the management of severe hypernatremia include:

• Careful calculation of the rate of correction to avoid brain swelling and neurological complications
• Identification and treatment of the underlying cause
• Close monitoring of fluid status, electrolytes, and neurological function
• Use of hypotonic fluids like 5% dextrose in water or half-normal saline It's worth noting that the management of hypernatremia is different from hyponatremia, and the use of desmopressin is not typically recommended for hypernatremia 2. Instead, the focus is on careful correction of the sodium level and treatment of the underlying cause. In general, the management of electrolyte imbalances requires a careful and nuanced approach, taking into account the individual patient's needs and the potential risks and benefits of different treatments 3. By prioritizing careful correction of the sodium level and treatment of the underlying cause, healthcare providers can help to minimize the risks associated with severe hypernatremia and improve patient outcomes.