1. What is Sodium Correction for Hyperglycemia?

The sodium correction formula adjusts measured sodium levels in the presence of hyperglycemia (high blood glucose). High glucose levels cause osmotic shifts that dilute sodium in the blood, making measured sodium appear lower than it actually is.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the sodium correction formula:

Where:

• \( Measured\_Na \) — Serum sodium level (mEq/L)
• \( Glucose \) — Blood glucose level (mg/dL)
• 1.6 — Correction factor (mEq/L per 100 mg/dL glucose above 100)

Explanation: For every 100 mg/dL increase in glucose above 100 mg/dL, serum sodium decreases by approximately 1.6 mEq/L due to osmotic effects.

3. Importance of Sodium Correction

Details: Correcting sodium levels in hyperglycemia is crucial for accurate assessment of hyponatremia or hypernatremia, which affects treatment decisions in diabetic emergencies like DKA or HHS.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter measured sodium in mEq/L and glucose in mg/dL. Both values must be positive numbers. The calculator automatically applies the correction formula.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is sodium correction needed in hyperglycemia?
A: High glucose creates osmotic pressure that pulls water into the bloodstream, diluting sodium and making measured levels appear artificially low.

Q2: Is the correction factor always 1.6?
A: Most studies support 1.6, though some suggest 2.4 for more severe hyperglycemia (>400 mg/dL). The 1.6 factor is most widely accepted.

Q3: When should I use this correction?
A: Use when glucose is >100 mg/dL. The effect is negligible below this level.

Q4: Does this apply to all patients with high glucose?
A: Yes, though the exact correction may vary slightly based on individual factors like hydration status.

Q5: How does this affect treatment decisions?
A: Corrected sodium helps determine true electrolyte status, guiding fluid replacement and monitoring for cerebral edema risk.