Hyponatremia. A Serious Sodium Deficiency

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Description

Sodium is everywhere, and most of us have to restrict our use of salt to prevent cardiovascular disease. But there is a condition called hyponatremia in which the sodium concentration of the blood is too low. It's been called water intoxication because it can happen when poorly trained weekend warrior athletes drink too much water during exertion. Hyponatremia can also occur during treatments for diseases or for other reasons. And when it does, it can be a life-threatening situation. If the sodium levels in the blood drop too low, the brain can swell, which leads to coma and sometimes death. This program looks at the circumstances that can lead to hyponatremia and explores the latest treatments.