Prepare for the ASU HCR240 Human Pathophysiology exam. Study with interactive quizzes and multiple choice questions, each with hints and detailed explanations. Boost your pathophysiology knowledge for success on test day!

Hyponatremia is a condition characterized by low sodium levels in the blood, and it can be caused by various factors that result in an imbalance of sodium and water in the body.

Excessive water administration can lead to hyponatremia by diluting the sodium concentration in the bloodstream. When too much water is consumed in a short period, it overwhelms the kidneys' ability to excrete it, leading to dilutional hyponatremia.

Vomiting can also contribute to hyponatremia because it causes the loss of sodium along with other electrolytes and fluids from the body. If this loss is not compensated for by adequate sodium intake, a reduction in plasma sodium levels can occur.

Excessive sweating results in the loss of both water and sodium; however, if sufficient sodium is not replaced through diet or intake, this can lead to hyponatremia as well.

In contrast, excessive sodium intake typically does not cause hyponatremia. In fact, consuming high levels of sodium generally results in a higher plasma sodium concentration, thereby counteracting the development of hyponatremia. It’s important to note that sodium levels are regulated tightly by the kidneys and the body overall. Therefore,

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