1: Fluid and Electrolyte - Hypernatraemia Flashcards
How can aetiology of hypernatraemia be divided
Hypovolaemic
Euvolaemic
Hypervolcaemic
What causes hypovolaemia hypernatraemia
- Dehydration
- Diuretics
- Osmotic diuresis (Glucose)
What causes euvolaemic hypernatraemia
- Diabetes inspidus
What causes hypervolaemic hypernatraemia
- Primary hyperaldosteronism (Conns)
- Cushing’s disease
- Iatrogenic
Explain presentation of sub-acute hypernatraemia
In sub-acute cells have time to adjust and release osmotic particles increasing water retention
Explain acute (<48h) presentation of hypernatraemia
Cells to not have time to adjust - meaning water moves into vascular space to compensate for sodium. This causes shrinkage and lysis of cells
How does mild hypernatraemia present
- Muscle weakness
- Headache
- N+V
How does moderate hypernatraemia present
- Muscle weakness
- Lethargy
- Confusion
How does severe hypernatraemia present
- Coma
- Altered consciousness
- Seizures
What is first line investigation for hypernatraemia
U+E
What will be seen on U+E
High Sodium
If hypernatraemia is seen what should be ordered
Urine osmolality
What does a serum osmolality of less than 800 imply
Less than 800 implies excessive water loss via the kidneys
What does serum osmolality more than 800 imply
More than 800 implies extra-renal water loss. Kidney tries to compensate by increasing water reabsorption and concentrating urine
What does a serum osmolality less than 800 and hypovolaemia indicate
- Diuretics = increase fluid excretion by kidney
- Osmotic diuresis