Answer :
Final answer:
A mild sodium level decrease to 136-139 mEq/L might not cause noticeable symptoms, but as levels drop further, it can lead to symptoms such as muscular cramps and headaches due to cellular swelling from osmosis.
Explanation:
A sodium level of 136-139 is considered to be within the lower end of the normal range. Symptoms associated with sodium levels falling below the normal range (hyponatremia) can include muscular cramps, headache, nausea, and fainting, which are results of an imbalance in electrolytes and the effects of osmosis at the cellular level. Recall that with hyponatremia, there is increased entry of water into cells, which causes swelling and can lead to decreased oxygen-carrying efficiency of red blood cells and potential brain damage due to neuron swelling. In the case of slight hyponatremia (such as levels of 136-139), symptoms may be mild or not noticeable, but if the levels drop further, the symptoms can significantly worsen.
