Sodium Blood Test - More Information

The sodium test, sometimes known as a sodium lab test, na blood test, na lab test, and a sodium level test, measures the sodium blood level.

Sodium (symbol Na) is an element that plays a major role in regulating fluid balances and blood pressure in the body. Commonly ingested as salt, or sodium chloride, in the diet, excessive sodium intake is linked to a common chronic medical condition known as hypertension (high blood pressure).

Both high levels and low levels of sodium can cause major problems in the body. Hypernatremia, or excessive sodium levels, can be identified with a high sodium test results. Hypernatremia causes thirst and weakness and can progress to life-threatening neurological symptoms. Hyponatremia, or low sodium levels, is identified with a low sodium test. Hyponatremia can lead to confusion and poor coordination and can also progress to severe neurological conditions.

Getting a sodium test near you is a fast process as every standard Quest Diagnostics location has the necessary equipment to perform the test. Some people consider ordering the CMP test when tracking their sodium levels given the added electrolyte information it provides in addition to the sodium blood levels. As can be seen on the sample sodium test lab report above, sodium blood levels are reported as a number and can be compared against the reference range provided by the lab.