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Hyponatremia is a condition characterized by abnormally low levels of sodium in the blood. Sodium is essential for maintaining fluid balance, nerve function, and muscle function. The causes of hyponatremia can be grouped into different categories:

1. Excess Water Intake or Retention
– Water intoxication: Consuming excessive amounts of water can dilute sodium levels in the blood.
– Syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion (SIADH): The body retains water due to excessive release of antidiuretic hormone (ADH), leading to diluted sodium.

2. Increased Sodium Loss
– Diuretics: Medications that increase urine output can lead to sodium loss, particularly thiazide diuretics.
– Vomiting or diarrhea: Severe or prolonged vomiting and diarrhea can cause significant sodium loss.
– Sweating: Excessive sweating without adequate sodium replacement can result in hyponatremia.

3. Medical Conditions
– Heart failure: Reduced heart function can cause the body to retain fluid, diluting sodium levels.
– Kidney disease: Impaired kidney function can disrupt the balance of water and sodium in the body.
– Liver cirrhosis: This can lead to fluid retention and low sodium levels.

4. Hormonal Imbalances
– Adrenal insufficiency (Addison’s disease): Inadequate production of hormones like aldosterone can lead to sodium loss.
– Hypothyroidism: Low thyroid hormone levels can impair water balance and contribute to hyponatremia.

5. Medications
– Antidepressants (SSRIs): Some antidepressants can affect the body’s water and sodium balance.
– Pain medications (NSAIDs): Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can affect kidney function and sodium levels.
– Antipsychotics: Certain antipsychotic medications can lead to SIADH and hyponatremia.

Recognizing the underlying cause of hyponatremia is crucial for appropriate treatment and management.