Sodium in urine is a critical biomarker for understanding hydration, kidney health, and dietary habits. Elevated levels can signal high sodium intake or kidney dysfunction, while low levels may indicate fluid retention, low sodium intake, or adrenal insufficiency. Regular monitoring, dietary adjustments, and addressing underlying health conditions can help maintain optimal sodium balance and reduce the risk of complications like hypertension, kidney disease, and electrolyte imbalances.
Testing for urinary sodium levels provides valuable information about dietary habits, kidney function, and overall fluid and electrolyte balance. Here’s why this biomarker is significant:
Normal Sodium Levels in Urine
- Sodium excretion can vary widely, depending on diet and hydration. Typical urinary sodium levels range from 40–220 mEq/day, depending on sodium intake and kidney health.
- Welleys can measure Sodium levels at a range between 0 mg/dl - 500 mg/dl.
High Sodium in Urine (Hypernatriuria)
- Excessive Sodium Intake: A diet high in salt increases sodium excretion in urine.
- Dehydration: Sodium excretion may appear elevated when water intake is low, concentrating the urine.
- Diuretic Use: Medications that increase urine output often raise urinary sodium levels.
- Kidney Conditions: Certain kidney disorders impair sodium regulation, leading to high urinary sodium.
- Adrenal Disorders: Conditions like Cushing’s syndrome or primary aldosteronism can lead to increased sodium excretion.
Low Sodium in Urine (Hyponatriuria)
- Low Sodium Intake: A diet with insufficient sodium results in low urinary sodium excretion.
- Fluid Retention: Conditions like heart failure, liver disease (cirrhosis), or nephrotic syndrome cause sodium retention in the body, reducing urinary sodium levels.
- Adrenal Insufficiency: Disorders like Addison’s disease reduce sodium excretion due to insufficient aldosterone production.
- Dehydration: In severe dehydration, the kidneys conserve sodium, lowering urinary excretion.