Sodium
Sodium is a chemical element (symbol Na, atomic number 11) that occurs in the body as a sodium ion (Na+), especially in the fluid outside cells, such as blood plasma. It is crucial for regulating water balance, helps to transmit nerve impulses and supports muscle contraction, including the heart muscle. Without sufficient sodium, simple activities such as thinking or walking could be impaired.
Laboratory medical examination in Germany
In Germany, the sodium concentration is routinely measured in blood serum as part of laboratory medical diagnostics. The most common method is the use of ion-selective electrodes (ISE), which use special sensors to react selectively to sodium ions and measure their concentration directly. This method is precise, efficient and is used in almost all clinical laboratories(sodium in serum/urine – MVZ-Labormedizin Krefeld, calibration laboratory 2 | DGKL).
The normal values are 135-145 mmol/l in the serum. If the values are too low or too high, this can indicate diseases such as liver cirrhosis, heart failure or dehydration. Interpretation often requires additional tests, such as measuring osmolality, to get an accurate picture.
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