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Hyponatremia-associated rhabdomyolysis
H Trimarchi1, J Gonzalez, J Olivero
1Servicio de Nefrología y Hemodiálisis, Hospital Británico de Buenos Aires, Argentina.
Nephron
|July 9, 1999
Summary
Excessive water intake can cause hyponatremia (low sodium) and rhabdomyolysis (muscle breakdown), especially in patients using thiazide diuretics. Monitor muscle enzymes in patients with muscle pain and hyponatremia.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Endocrinology
- Internal Medicine
Background:
- Hyponatremia is a common electrolyte disorder, frequently linked to thiazide diuretic use.
- Thiazide diuretics impair the kidney's ability to excrete free water, increasing risk.
- Hyponatremia is an uncommon cause of rhabdomyolysis.
Observation:
- A 51-year-old woman on chronic hydrochlorothiazide therapy presented with severe myalgias.
- The patient experienced acute water intoxication and developed symptoms of rhabdomyolysis.
Findings:
- The patient developed acute hypotonic hyponatremia and subsequent rhabdomyolysis.
- This case highlights the association between thiazide-induced hyponatremia and rhabdomyolysis.
- Mechanisms linking hyponatremia and muscle damage are discussed.
Implications:
- Muscle enzyme monitoring is crucial for patients with acute hyponatremia and muscle pain.
- Rhabdomyolysis should be considered in patients on thiazide diuretics presenting with myalgias.
- This emphasizes the importance of recognizing and managing thiazide-induced hyponatremia.