Clinical Profile of Hyponatremia and Its Impact on Activities of Daily Living Among Older People (A Prospective Observational Study)

Introduction: Hyponatremia is a common, serious problem among older people. The aetiology is multifactorial and has a significant association with different comorbidities, which makes it pertinent to identify the underlying causes, and it has a negative impact on activities of daily living (ADL). In this study, we tried to correlate the impact of hyponatremia on activities of daily living. Methodology: A prospective observational study was conducted in the intensive care unit of Shri B M Patil Medical College and Hospital, Vijayapura, on one hundred consecutive elderly patients admitted with true hyponatremia for twelve months. Detailed medical history, clinical examination, laboratory investigations, diagnosis and outcome were recorded. Results: The mean age of older patients was 70.62 ± 9 years. The male/female ratio was 57% to 43%. The atypical symptoms were present in 71 patients, while typical symptoms like vomiting (n = 36), nausea (n = 33) and altered mental status (n = 24) were seen. Most patients were Euvolemic (50%). The common aetiologies were SIADH (30%), Gastrointestinal losses (19%) and Drug-induced (16%). Activities of daily living were poor at the time of admission in 82% patients, while significant improvement was observed after the correction of sodium levels with a significant p-value. Conclusion: Even though older individuals are prone to hyponatremia, it is often under-investigated and sub-optimally managed. Hyponatremia affects the activity of daily living rapidly; therefore, prompt recognition and correction of sodium levels can lead to considerable improvements in function. This underscores the importance of proactive screening and early intervention for hyponatremia to maintain independence and minimize morbidity among elderly patients.