CLINICO-ETIOLOGICAL PROFILE OF HYPONATREMIA AMONG ADMITTED PATIENTS AT DR. RADHA KRISHNAN GOVT. MEDICAL COLLEGE AND HOSPITAL HAMIRPUR HIMACHAL PRADESH

Abstract

Hyponatremia is a common electrolyte disturbance encountered in hospitals. It is dened as serum concentration <135 meq/l. Various comorbidities predispose to the development of hyponatremia. Patient has symptoms of both hyponatremia as well as comorbidities. This contributes to increased morbidity and mortality .However early recognition and treatment makes prognosis better. Aim: To study clinical features of patients admitted with hyponatremia and investigate them to nd out various aetiologies. Methods And Material: Study was conducted at newly opened medical college at Hamirpur in Himachal Pradesh with limited facilities. A total of 50 patients with symptoms and documented hyponatremia were enrolled in study. Detailed history, clinical examination and laboratory investigations were done. Data thus collected was analysed. Results: Total number of patients was 50. Females were more as compared to males. Mean age of presentation was 67 years and lethargy ,nausea and vomiting were the most common symptoms. Diabetes mellitus and hypertension were the most common comorbidities. Among drugs diuretics were the most commonly used causing hyponatremia. Out of 50 patients 45 patients recovered and ve patients have to be referred because of comorbidities. Conclusions: Hyponatremia is a common problem and clinicians need to be aware of it mainly in the elderly patients. A systemic approach and simple diagnostic algorithm can signicantly improve the outcome in these patients. Treatment of hyponatremia is governed by levels of hyponatremia not by its etiology along with comorbid conditions.