Treatment:

The cause of hyponatremia must be diagnosed and treated. In some cases, cancer may cause the condition, and radiation, chemotherapy, or surgery to remove the tumor may correct the sodium imbalance.

Other treatments depend on the specific type of hyponatremia.

Treatments may include:

• Fluids through a vein (IV)
• Medication to relieve symptoms
• Water restriction

Expectations (prognosis):

The outcome depends on the condition that is causing the problem. In general, acute hyponatremia, which occurs in less than 48 hours, is more dangerous than hyponatremia that develops slowly over time. When sodium levels fall slowly over a period of days or weeks (chronic hyponatremia), the brain cells have time to adjust and swelling is minimal.

Complications:

• Brain herniation
• Death
• Possible coma

Calling your health care provider:

Hyponatremia can be a life-threatening emergency. Call your health care provider if you have symptoms of this condition.