Sodium & Potassium
Answers to common questions about sodium & potassium.
Questions on this page
Why are sodium and potassium important?
They are essential electrolytes involved in:
- Nerve function
- Muscle function
- Fluid balance
- Heart rhythm
What causes low sodium?
Possible causes include:
- Medications
- Excess water intake
- SIADH
- Adrenal insufficiency
- Thyroid disorders
- Heart, liver or kidney disease
What causes high sodium?
High sodium commonly reflects a relative deficit of water and can occur with dehydration or disorders of water balance.
What causes low potassium?
Possible causes include:
- Diuretics
- Gastrointestinal losses
- Primary aldosteronism
- Other hormonal or kidney disorders
Can adrenal disorders affect potassium?
Yes.
Aldosterone plays an important role in potassium regulation.