1. What is Sodium Correction?

The sodium correction formula adjusts measured sodium levels in the presence of hyperglycemia. High glucose levels can cause pseudohyponatremia by drawing water into the intravascular space, diluting sodium concentration.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the sodium correction formula:

Where:

• \( Measured\_Na \) — Serum sodium level (mEq/L)
• \( Glucose \) — Blood glucose level (mg/dL)
• 1.6 — Correction factor (mEq/L per 100 mg/dL glucose above 100)

Explanation: For every 100 mg/dL increase in glucose above 100 mg/dL, sodium concentration decreases by approximately 1.6 mEq/L.

3. Importance of Corrected Sodium

Details: Correcting sodium levels in hyperglycemia is essential for accurate diagnosis and management of electrolyte imbalances, particularly in diabetic emergencies like DKA or HHS.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter measured sodium in mEq/L and glucose in mg/dL. Both values must be positive numbers. The calculator automatically applies the correction formula.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: When should sodium correction be applied?
A: Correction should be considered when glucose is >100 mg/dL, especially in hyperglycemic states (typically >200 mg/dL).

Q2: Is 1.6 the only correction factor?
A: Some sources use 2.4 mEq/L correction factor, but 1.6 is more widely accepted and evidence-based.

Q3: Does this apply to all cases of hyponatremia?
A: No, only for pseudohyponatremia due to hyperglycemia. Other causes require different evaluation.

Q4: What's the normal range for sodium?
A: Typically 135-145 mEq/L. Corrected values below 135 indicate true hyponatremia.

Q5: How often should sodium be rechecked?
A: In acute hyperglycemia, sodium should be monitored every 2-4 hours during initial treatment.