Low sodium query

Ask our Nurses your questions
1

I’ve recently been diagnosed with grade 1 IDC ER8 PR8, and awaiting MRI results to confirm treatment plan. I had blood tests yesterday and got an email from Patients Know Best that my test results are available.

All are ok except sodium is categorised as out of range. It’s 132 mmol/L, and says the range is 133-146.

As it’s only just out of range, I assume this will be discussed with me at my next appointment and I don’t need to do anything about it now?

But while I’m already struggling with the uncertainty while waiting for confirmation of my overall cancer severity/treatment plan, this info just feels like an extra stressor. I don’t know what if anything I’m supposed to do about it and googling it just felt a bit overwhelming. I wish they hadn’t shared the results with me without a medical professional to explain the significance and what to do/not do.

I’m 45, otherwise fit and well, not taking any medications, no other health issues, no significant medical history.

Any advice would be very gratefully received x

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As it’s only just out of range why don’t you contact your surgery in the meantime and ask about it . They may repeat one or more of your samples - this happened to me with my potassium . I had had it done routinely a few months before surgery and was told at pre- assessment that it was high and hadn’t been told it was deranged so I was quite annoyed as unlike your sodium it was not borderline . They repeated it at my request and it was normal - sometimes you can get a one off reading that’s out of range for a multitude of reasons. Otherwise ask your BCN about it - good to be proactive I think . Xx

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As advised speak to your doctor for reassurance
I do know that excessive drinking water (which seems to be a thing nowadays) can flush out your sodium ( salt)
So perhaps just drink fluids when you’re thirsty
It is only a teeny bit out of range so probably not an issue
Best wishes

1 Like
4

Hi beachfox

Thanks for posting.

Being diagnosed with breast cancer can feel overwhelming and it’s understandable that you are feeling that your blood test results are an added stress for you.

A slightly lower than normal level of sodium in the blood can happen for many reasons. As @JoanneN and @Sue123 both suggest, talking to your GP about this may be something you’d wish to consider. Your GP can then discuss the results with you and any possible action which may include simply repeating the test.

Many people tell us they struggle with the uncertainty of waiting for test results and a treatment plan. Our information on coping with the stress and anxiety of a breast cancer diagnosis may be of interest.

We offer a range of free supportive services for anyone who has had a diagnosis of breast cancer which you may be interested in. They include face to face and online courses and events.

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Best wishes

Julie

Breast Care Nurse

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