1. What is the Corrected Sodium Formula?

The corrected sodium formula adjusts serum sodium levels in the presence of hyperglycemia. It provides a more accurate assessment of sodium concentration by accounting for the osmotic shift of water caused by elevated glucose levels.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the corrected sodium formula:

Where:

• \( Na \) — Serum sodium concentration (mEq/L)
• \( Glucose \) — Blood glucose level (mg/dL)
• 1.6 — Correction factor for women

Explanation: The equation accounts for the dilutional effect of hyperglycemia on serum sodium levels, with a correction factor specific to women.

3. Importance of Sodium Correction

Details: Accurate sodium correction is crucial for proper diagnosis and management of electrolyte imbalances in patients with hyperglycemia, particularly in diabetic emergencies.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter serum sodium in mEq/L and glucose in mg/dL. Both values must be positive numbers for accurate calculation.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is sodium correction needed?
A: Hyperglycemia causes water to shift from intracellular to extracellular space, diluting sodium concentration. Correction provides the "true" sodium level.

Q2: Is the correction factor different for men?
A: Yes, the correction factor is typically 2.4 for men rather than 1.6 for women.

Q3: What glucose level requires correction?
A: Correction is generally needed when glucose exceeds 100 mg/dL, though clinically significant effects are usually seen above 200 mg/dL.

Q4: Are there limitations to this formula?
A: This is an estimate. Other factors like urea, mannitol, or severe hypertriglyceridemia can also affect sodium measurements.

Q5: How does this affect treatment decisions?
A: Corrected sodium helps guide fluid replacement therapy and prevents inappropriate treatment of pseudohyponatremia.