ABSTRACT
Hyponatremia is the most common electrolyte disorder in hospitalized patients. Its clinical diagnosis is difficult due to its marked variation in symptomatology as well as in its aetiology. As there are few studies on the clinical profile and aetiology of hyponatremia, the current study aims at evaluating the clinical and aetiological profile in patients admitted to a rural tertiary care hospital.METHODSIt is a descriptive study in which patients more than 20 years of age who had serum sodium <135 mEq/L within a study period of one year were included considering the inclusion and exclusion criteria. All relevant data were collected and analyzed.RESULTSAmong the 70 study subjects, the mean age of distribution was 54.8 ± 11.35 years with male preponderance (63%). Vomiting (35.7%) was the most common complaint. Profound hyponatremia was seen in 37%, whereas moderate hyponatremia in 33%. Systemic hypertension (42.9%) was the commonest comorbidity followed by diabetes mellitus (17.2%), and diuretic use (57.1%) was the commonest cause of hyponatremia followed by gastrointestinal (GI) losses (21.3%). Hypovolemic hyponatremia was seen in 77% of the study subjects followed by hypervolemic hyponatremia in 17% and euvolemi bmb nc hyponatremia in 6%.CONCLUSIONSAs the aetiology of hyponatremia might be multifactorial, a meticulous approach is required for the correct diagnosis. As an accurate diagnosis can alter the outcome with timely intervention significantly reducing the high morbidity and mortality associated with the condition, a thorough understanding of its pathophysiology and the treatment strategy is essential.