Most cases of high sodium levels in the elderly can be resolved with adequate hydration. Seniors are predisposed to developing hypernatremia due to age-related physiological changes, like decreased thirst. Caregivers who understand what causes high sodium levels in aging care recipients can take steps to return them to healthy levels.

What is high sodium?

The body is filled with electrolytes, which are essential minerals that play large roles in the proper functioning of the body. Sodium, along with calcium and potassium, are electrolytes. Sodium is critical to the body’s ability to regulate water and other substances.

The kidneys and adrenal glands regulate sodium levels. A hormone known as aldosterone works with the kidneys to maintain normal levels of sodium in the blood. When the sodium in the blood rises to 145 milliequivalents per liter, high sodium (medically known as hypernatremia) is diagnosed.

High sodium levels occur with inadequate water intake or water loss. Healthy individuals recognize thirst and their need for fluids; drinking water immediately corrects the sodium levels. But when seniors’ thirst changes and they fail to drink enough fluids, high sodium levels can result.

What causes high sodium levels in seniors?

1. Dehydration

As mentioned, older adults naturally experience a decreased sense of thirst. When the aging body loses significant amounts of water or accumulates too much sodium, high sodium levels develop. Dehydration is a prime culprit in high sodium levels. Fixing the dehydration easily resolves the problem.

When seniors start to feel thirsty and dehydrated, it means a mild case of hypernatremia is developing. But most cases of elevated sodium levels are mild and corrected by home remedies, like drinking water or a sports drink that contains electrolytes. Moderate cases can require medical care.

2. Medications

Older adults are at risk for developing high sodium levels not only due to their decreased thirst drive, but also because of a reduced volume of water in their bodies and an impaired ability to concentrate on urination. Medications prescribed to the senior can worsen this problem.

Common drugs that contribute to dehydration or lower the body’s fluid levels include diuretics, laxatives, and those used in chemotherapy treatments. Seniors may also be prescribed blood pressure medications or take supplements that contain caffeine—all of which cause dehydration.

3. Health Conditions

Health conditions can also lead to high sodium levels in the elderly or increase its likelihood. In addition to dehydration, these conditions include kidney disease, uncontrolled diabetes, delirium, and dementia. Older adults who vomit, have diarrhea, or run a fever can also develop high sodium levels.

What are symptoms of high sodium levels?

High sodium levels may produce no symptoms. Or the senior may be unaware of the symptoms. Symptoms that develop include fatigue, confusion, and excessive thirst. The older person may experience confusion, changes to their mood, suffer seizures, or fall into a coma. Their muscles may twitch or spasm.

Spasms or twitching muscles indicate an advanced case of hypernatremia; this is because sodium plays an important role in how the muscles and nerves function. Seizures and coma are also symptoms of severe cases of high sodium levels. However, severe symptoms are rare.

How are high sodium levels treated?

A treatment plan for high sodium levels depends on how quickly the levels rise, such as rapidly (within 24 hours) or slowly (more than 24 to 48 hours). Hypernatremia that develops rapidly is treated aggressively with an IV drip to deliver fluids to the blood.

Mild cases of high sodium levels are treated by increasing the fluid intake. Seniors should drink more water or beverages containing electrolytes to hydrate and correct their body’s fluid and sodium balance. Drinking too much water is advisable over not drinking enough, since the body can excrete the fluids.

The elderly are advised to drink six glasses of water per day, which amounts to about two liters. In addition to hydrating with water or other beverages, older adults can increase their fluid intake by eating foods with a high water content, like fruits, vegetables, and soups.

Treatments for high sodium levels include managing underlying diseases. Elderly patients with diabetes, for instance, should properly manage their condition to avoid complications with hypernatremia. The senior should work with their physician, who can recommend ways to help control the diabetes.

How do older adults prevent high sodium levels?

Older adults can make lifestyle changes to prevent high sodium levels. Seniors stay hydrated by drinking the daily recommended amounts of water. They must increase fluid intakes during hot weather and while exercising. Consume a healthy, balanced diet and properly manage existing health conditions.

Be aware that a diet high in sodium does not necessarily cause high sodium levels. However, hypernatremia can be an undesirable outcome of a high-sodium diet if the older adult’s sodium intake is excessive or they suffer from certain underlying health issues.

Mild cases of hypernatremia can be resolved at home by drinking more water. If your aging loved one has difficulty staying hydrated, Assisting Hands Home Care can help. Our professional caregivers promote the senior’s health by serving balanced meals and encouraging hydration with beverages.

Our in-home care services go beyond healthy meal preparation. We also shop for fresh groceries, provide timely medication reminders, and perform light housekeeping to maintain a clean, comfortable home environment. Caregivers assess the home for fall risks and remove hazards, like clutter. Mobility assistance is included.

When the senior has a doctor’s appointment, we provide reliable transportation and escort to the medical facility. We drive elderly care recipients to the pharmacy or senior center. Assistance with hygiene tasks, from bathing to toileting, is a part of our home care services. We’re also pleasant companions.

Help reducing symptoms of high sodium levels is within reach. Assisting Hands Home Care professionals are committed to serving the elderly in Batavia, Aurora, St Charles, Bartlett, IL, and the surrounding communities. Schedule a free in-home consultation at (630) 948-8193 today and see how quality non-medical senior care boosts overall health.