Low sodium levels can have a significant impact on the health and well being of elderly people. Underlying conditions along with low sodium levels could potentially cause health complications. The elderly need to be aware that taking certain medications can have an effect on an individual’s sodium levels, there are medications that cause the body to absorb less of the sodium taken in. Other age related problems may also have an impact, including: water retention, heart, kidney, or liver failure or an underactive thyroid.
Signs and symptoms of Low Sodium levels
Low sodium levels can have a substantial impact on the body. Symptoms can include; nausea, vomiting, headache, confusion, fatigue, lethargy, loss of appetite, restlessness, instability, muscle weakness, cramps, and seizures. In extremely severe cases decreased consciousness may occur and this can result in individuals entering comas. The symptoms get more severe the lower the sodium levels get within the blood.
It has been found that some illnesses may be linked to low sodium levels, and these may include: liver cirrhosis, congestive heart failure, and nephrotic syndrome in the kidneys. These conditions can make individual’s extremely ill, and if left untreated, they can lead to serious complications.
Treatment of low sodium levels
The treatment of low sodium levels amongst the elderly can vary depending on the cause. Fluid restriction or using intravenous fluids may be used depending on the cause. However if fluid restriction isn’t suitable in some cases medication can be prescribed, and monitoring what medications an individual takes can also be beneficial for maintaining healthy sodium levels. This is because some medications may affect sodium levels in the body, for example regularly taking diuretics may lower sodium levels in the body.
Low sodium levels and fractures and falls
It has been found that elderly individuals suffering from low sodium levels may be at a higher risk of having falls and fractures. There was a Dutch study in which 5000 individuals over the age of 55 took part, and the aim of this study was to determine if there was a relationship between low sodium levels and an increased number of falls. The study found that individuals who suffered from low sodium levels are 24% more likely to suffer from falls, and they were also found to be 61% more likely to suffer from spinal fractures and 39% more likely to suffer from non spinal fractures than those whose sodium levels are at a normal level.
This gives an indication that low sodium levels may increase the risk of falls and fractures, and this may be a result of some of the symptoms such as instability and muscle weakness. This may be the case because it may make walking unaided difficult, and without the right support and treatment this may result in falls.
How Home Care Can Help
Home Care may be a beneficial solution for preventing falls, and helping to maintain normal sodium levels. This is because Care Workers will be able to encourage individuals to maintain a balanced diet through prompting and encouragement at meal times, as well as prompting for any medications that may need to be taken. They may also be able to help individuals when mobilising. This would provide them with the extra confidence and stability they may need in order to prevent falls. Taking these steps may also help to maintain normal sodium levels, and this in turn could improve stability and may reduce the risk of individual’s falling. This is extremely beneficial, as it will help them to maintain independence, which will improve their confidence and help them to remain in their own home.