Acute Dysnatremias - a dangerous and overlooked clinical problem

Abstract

Abstract Background Dysnatremias are common electrolyte disturbances with significant morbidity and mortality. In chronic dysnatremias a slow correction rate ( 10 mmol/L/24 h). The median time of correction was 1 day in patients with hypo- and 2.5 days in patients with hypernatremia. The mortality was 7% in patients with hypo- and 29% in patients with hypernatremia. Interpretation Severe acute dysnatremias have significant mortality and require immediate treatment. A rapid correction rate may be lifesaving and is not associated with neurological complications. Chronic dysnatremias, on the other hand, are often compensated and thus less severe. In these cases a rapid correction rate may lead to severe cerebral complications.

Keywords

• Acute dysnatremia
• Hyponatremia
• Hypernatremia
• Water intoxication
• Salt intoxication
• Psychogenic polydipsia