Hyponatremia and mortality among very elderly residents in a geriatric health service facility

Clin Exp Nephrol. 2018 Dec;22(6):1404-1410. doi: 10.1007/s10157-018-1607-x. Epub 2018 Jun 27.

Abstract

Introduction: Hyponatremia is common among elderly patients. This study aimed to examine the prognostic value of hyponatremia among elderly residents in a geriatric facility.

Methods: We retrospectively examined the association between serum sodium levels and mortality among 118 residents (82% female, mean age 85.5 years) in a single geriatric health service facility. We defined hyponatremia as Na < 135 mEq/L. On the basis of single measurements of serum sodium at periodic examinations, the patients were divided into hyponatremia and non-hyponatremia groups. Multivariable Cox proportional hazards models were used to evaluate the effect of hyponatremia on mortality from May 2005 to April 2007.

Results: Thirty-three patients (28%) had hyponatremia. Over a 1-year follow-up period, the cumulative survival rate was significantly lower in patients with hyponatremia than in those without hyponatremia. In a multivariate analysis, including traditional risk factors for death, hyponatremia was associated with an increased mortality risk (adjusted hazard ratio 2.73; 95% confidence interval 1.01-5.16; p = 0.047).

Conclusions: Hyponatremia is common and is a predictor of mortality in the near future among very elderly residents of a geriatric facility.

Keywords: Elderly; Geriatric facility; Hyponatremia; Mortalit.

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Cause of Death
  • Female
  • Health Services for the Aged
  • Humans
  • Hyponatremia / mortality*
  • Male
  • Proportional Hazards Models
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Sodium / blood

Substances

  • Sodium