# Sodium (Na$^+$) --- **Sodium ion** or **Na$^+$** is a very important [[ion]] that acts as an [[electrolytes|electrolyte]] whose primary function is for maintaining a healthy [[fluid volume balance]] and the transmission of [[action potential|action potentials]]. It is the most common *extracellular* cation. Sodium also helps and [[glucose]] absorption in the small intestine because glucose requires [[membrane transport|active transport]] that depends on sodium. >[!science] Normal Values The normal value of Na+ is **135-145** mEq/L >>[!abstract]- Visualization >>![[metabolic panel values.png]] We gain sodium primarily through consuming NaCl in our diets. Almost all the sodium we eat is [[nutrient absorption|absorbed]] through the [[small intestine]], though some is also absorbed in the large intestine. Where sodium goes, water will follow, so this regulates the water in the cells of our bodies, which is particularly important for the brain, nerves and muscles. ## Elemental Sodium **Sodium** (Na) is an [[element#Alkali Metals|alkali metal]] that is highly reactive. It is often found bound to [[chloride|chlorine]] in an [[ionic bond]] to form **sodium chloride** or NaCl. ## Sodium's Relationship with Other Electrolytes - Sodium and [[potassium]] have an inverse relationship: when potassium levels rise sodium levels drop, and vice versa. ## Sodium Imbalances Since sodium is so important for maintaining neurological function, sodium imbalances play havoc on our CNS. On top of that, since sodium is so important for maintaining proper blood [[osmosis|osmolarity]], imbalances can cause serious [[body fluids|fluid]] imbalances. >[!danger] Correct Imbalances Slowly >Be careful correcting sodium imbalances slowly, as rapidly changing sodium levels can cause problems in the brain, which means we put them at risk for seizures. - [[Hypernatremia]] is when there is too high a concentration of sodium in the blood. - [[Hyponatremia]] is when there is too low a concentration of sodium in the blood. ___