What causes low sodium and anemia

Reviewed by Dr Patrick Ruane

Is your parent or elder relative at risk for low sodium levels? Or have you been told their sodium is low?

Blood sodium levels tend to decrease with age for a range of reasons.

It can be a side effect of medication or a consequence of certain medical conditions like kidney disease.

Dangerously low sodium levels

It is especially common in older people who are in care homes or hospitals. However, it can be hard to spot and is usually only discovered incidentally through routine blood tests.

Read on to learn more about about low blood sodium levels and how it can be prevented and treated in older people.

Note: If you think your elderly parent or loved one might be at risk or suffering from low sodium levels, you should speak to their doctor to arrange for a blood test.

Why are low sodium levels a concern?

Sodium is an electrolyte that regulates the amount of water in and around our cells.

Most of the body’s sodium is in the blood or fluid around the cells. We get our sodium through what we eat and drink,

how do you treat low sodium in elderly

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