The normal ranges for sodium and potassium in the blood are slightly variable depending on the laboratory and methodology used, but generally fall within these ranges:
Sodium
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Normal Range: 135 to 145 mmol/L (millimoles per liter) or mEq/L (milliequivalents per liter). Several sources cited ranges of 136-144 mmol/L and 133-146 mmol/L.
- Note: Maintaining sodium within this range is crucial for proper fluid balance and nerve and muscle function. Deviations can lead to serious health problems like hyponatremia (low sodium) or hypernatremia (high sodium). See Mayo Clinic's information on Hyponatremia.
Potassium
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Normal Range: 3.6 to 5.5 mmol/L (millimoles per liter) or mEq/L (milliequivalents per liter). Sources show slight variations, including ranges of 3.7-5.1 mmol/L, 3.7-5.2 mmol/L, and 3.5-5.0 mEq/L.
- Note: Potassium plays a vital role in heart function, muscle contractions, and nerve signals. Abnormal levels can cause cardiac arrhythmias and muscle weakness. Rapid changes in potassium levels, especially increases above 0.5 mmol/L over six to 12 hours, are considered high risk (BPAC). See more details on electrolyte panels and Potassium information from NIH.
Important Considerations:
- These ranges are general guidelines. Your individual normal range may vary slightly depending on your health status, age, and other factors.
- Always consult your healthcare provider to interpret your blood test results and discuss any concerns about your sodium or potassium levels. They will consider your individual medical history and current symptoms to determine if treatment is necessary.
