A CLINICAL PROFILE AND OUTCOME ANALYSIS OF HYPONATREMIA IN A TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL

Background: Hyponatremia is the most frequently encountered electrolyte disorder in hospitalized patients, contributing to signicant morbidity and mortality. The condition is often secondary to systemic illnesses such as hypertension, diabetes, and cardiac failure. This study evaluates the clinical prole, severity, and outcomes of hyponatremic patients in a tertiary care setting. Objectives: 1) To analyze the comorbid conditions commonly associated with hyponatremia. 2)To determine the primary causes of hospital admission in these patients. 3)To assess the impact of hyponatremia severity on hospital stay and clinical outcomes. Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted at Sir T. Hospital, Bhavnagar, over six months. 100 patients diagnosed with serum sodium levels <135 mEq/L were included. Data on comorbidities, admission causes, hyponatremia severity, hospital stay, and patient outcomes were analyzed. Ethics Committee Government Medical College, Bhavnagar (EC Number: 1190/2022). Results: Comorbidities: Hypertension (58%) and diabetes mellitus (55%) were the most common. Primary Admission Causes: Metabolic encephalopathy (27%) was the leading cause of hospitalization. Severity Distribution: Moderate (74%) and Severe (24%) cases were dominant. Outcomes: 68% of patients were discharged with medication, while the mortality rate was 8%, primarily in severe cases. Conclusion: Hyponatremia is associated with prolonged hospitalization and adverse outcomes, especially in the presence of multiple comorbidities. Early detection and effective electrolyte correction strategies are crucial in improving patient prognosis