What Causes Low Sodium Levels With Normal Blood Work?

Posted on Sun, 22 Mar 2015

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sun, 22 Mar 2015 Answered on

Mon, 13 Apr 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : As you advised I went to my primary care doctor. She did an ekg which was good. She also drew blood to check for anemia and thyroid. Blood work was good with the exception of my sodium level it was 2 points lower than accepted protocol. I also wore the halter monitor for 48 hours. All looked good. Heart rate stayed between 58 - 78. So only issue is the sodium level. Not sure exactly what that signifies?

Answered by Dr. Lilit Baghdasaryan (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Welcome back

Detailed Answer:
Dear Mrs,

Actually any electrolyte disbalance can cause palpitations. It is not very common to have low sodium levels unless you take diuretics or you are dehydrated.
I would like to know are you now. Do you have some complaints now, and have you had any complaints while wearing holter.

Best regards,

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Lilit Baghdasaryan (2 minutes later)

No symptoms with halter or since original 2 times
I do take hydrochloratjyazide and atenolol for hypertension. Same amounts for over 10 years

Answered by Dr. Lilit Baghdasaryan (57 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Good chances that you won't have any arrhythmia after sodium correction

Detailed Answer:
Dear Mrs,

Hydrochlorthiazide can lead to low sodium level. It can be corrected with medications, diet and/or withdrawal of hydrochlorthiazide.
I think your arrhythmia were induced by both electrolyte disbalance and stress.
It is very good you have no symptoms since.
And there are good chances you won't have any after correction of sodium levels.

Wishing you good health

Regards,

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar