Discharge Instructions for Hyponatremia (Pediatric)
Your child has been diagnosed with hyponatremia. This is a low level of sodium in the blood. Sodium helps the body work normally. Too little sodium can cause health problems. Very low sodium can cause death. A low level of sodium has many causes. It can be caused by some medications. It can be caused by dehydration or severe burns. And illness of the kidneys, heart, and liver can also cause it. Below is what you need to know about home care.
Home Care
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Limit your child’s intake of fluids as advised.
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Ask your healthcare provider for the best way to replace your child’s body fluids after vomiting or diarrhea.
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Have your child replace fluids carefully after exercise or activity that causes sweating. Give your child a sports drink that has electrolytes. Or give another type of drink as advised by the doctor.
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Tell your doctor about all medications your child is taking. This includes both prescribed and over-the-counter medications. Some of these can lower sodium levels.
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Have your child take all medications as directed.
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Have your child’s sodium levels checked as often as advised. This is very important if your child takes a diuretic. This is a medication that helps flush water from the body.
Follow-Up
Make follow-up appointments for your child as advised by our staff. The doctor will need to watch your child’s condition.
When to Call Your Child’s Doctor
Call the doctor right away if your child has any of the following:
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Bloating and puffiness in the face and fingers
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Nausea and vomiting
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Fatigue
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Fainting, dizziness, or lightheadedness
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Confusion
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Muscle weakness, spasms, cramping, or twitching
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Headache
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Disorientation
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Seizures
