What is the medical term for an abnormally low concentration of sodium in the blood?

The medical term for an abnormally low concentration of sodium in the blood is hyponatremia. This condition occurs when the sodium levels drop below the normal range, which can lead to an imbalance in bodily fluids and result in various physiological dysfunctions. Sodium is crucial for maintaining fluid balance, nerve impulse transmission, and muscle function.

Understanding the term is essential, as hyponatremia can have significant clinical implications. It can result from several causes, including excessive fluid intake, certain medications, or underlying health conditions, and it may lead to symptoms ranging from mild headache and confusion to severe neurological complications in extreme cases.

The other terms mentioned refer to different electrolyte imbalances: hypernatremia indicates high sodium levels, hypocalcemia refers to low calcium levels, and hypercalcemia denotes elevated calcium levels. Each of these conditions presents distinct clinical features and management strategies, highlighting the importance of accurate terminology in medical practice.