What do the results mean?If your results show higher than normal sodium levels, it may indicate:DiarrheaA disorder of the adrenal glandsA kidney disorderDiabetes insipidus, a rare form of diabetes that happens when the kidneys pass an unusually high volume of urine.If your results show lower than normal sodium levels, it may indicate:DiarrheaVomitingKidney diseaseAddison disease, a condition in which your body's adrenal glands don't produce enough of certain types of hormonesCirrhosis, a condition that causes scarring of the liver and can damage liver functionMalnutritionHeart failureIf your results are not in the normal range, it doesn't necessarily mean that you have a medical condition needing treatment. Certain medicines can increase or decrease your sodium levels. If you have questions about your results, talk to your health care provider.Learn more about laboratory tests, reference ranges, and understanding results.
