When undergoing a complete medical examination, many people undergo a Complete Blood Count (CBC) test (kidney function). Sometimes, the results of this test show a lowered or elevated sodium level. Experts explain whether this indicates impaired kidney function.
Sodium is a vital electrolyte in the body that participates in maintaining water balance and performs many other functions. Sodium levels can change for various reasons related to both kidney function and other factors, so it is important to assess the deviation from established parameters.
Professor Dr. Himanshu Verma from the nephrology department of Safdarjung Hospital explains that if a low sodium level is found in the CBC report, it is called hyponatremia. This condition can arise due to excess water in the body or hormonal problems. With a slight decrease in sodium level, there are usually no cause for concern.
If the sodium level in the body is high, it is called hypernatremia. This problem is often associated with dehydration. It can occur after heavy sweating or vomiting with diarrhea. Also, if a person has not drunk enough water before taking the CBC, the sodium level in the body may be low.
Dr. Himanshu emphasizes that a low or high sodium level itself is not a direct sign of kidney damage. Additional tests, such as creatinine and eGFR, are performed to assess kidney health. Furthermore, he advises against independently reducing salt intake when the sodium level is high and against consuming too much salt when it is low.
The normal range for sodium level in the body is from 135 to 145 milliequivalents per liter (mEq/L). If the indicator exceeds 200 or drops below 90, a consultation with a doctor is necessary.
