What is Hypernatremia?

Hypernatremia is a condition characterized by an increased amount of sodium in the blood. This occurs as a result of water loss or inadequate intake of water, causing an imbalance in the body's water and sodium levels. When there is insufficient water in the body, the kidneys try to conserve it by reabsorbing more water and excreting concentrated urine, leading to a higher concentration of sodium in the blood. This imbalance can result in symptoms like excessive thirst, dry mucous membranes, decreased urine output, confusion, and in severe cases, seizures or coma. Thus, hypernatremia is identified by an increase in blood sodium levels.