Aetiology of Hyponatremia in Elderly Patients and Short-Term Hospital Outcome

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Background: Hyponatremia is a common electrolyte disorder in hospitalized elderly patients and is associated with adverse clinical outcomes. Data on its aetiology and short-term outcomes in Bangladesh remain limited. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the aetiology of hyponatremia and assess short-term in-hospital outcomes among elderly patients. Methods: This prospective observational study was conducted at the Department of Internal Medicine at Sir Salimullah Medical College and Mitford Hospital, Dhaka, Bangladesh, over 12 months. A total of 66 elderly patients (≥65 years) with serum sodium levels < 135 mmol/L were included in this study. Clinical evaluation, laboratory investigations and hospital outcomes were documented. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 22.0. Results: A total of 66 patients were enrolled in the study. The most common aetiology of hyponatremia was the syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion (33.3%), followed by renal disease (22.7%) and dehydration (16.7%). Hypervolemic hyponatremia was the predominant type (40.9%). Most patients (86.4%) had a hospital stay of 7–10 days. Overall, 77.3% improved and were discharged, 15.2% were discharged on risk bond and in-hospital mortality was 7.5%. Conclusion: Hyponatremia in elderly hospitalized patients is commonly due to SIADH and renal disease and is associated with significant short-term hospital outcomes. Early identification of the underlying cause and appropriate management may improve clinical outcomes in this vulnerable population.