D. Inappropriate Secretion of Anti Diuretic Hormone

There are situations in which there is an inappropriate secretion of antidiuretic hormone (ADH). In order to understand this, we need to understand first what is an appropriate secretion of ADH. ADH is secreted appropriately if the plasma is hypertonic (contains a large concentration of sodium) or if there is loss of intravascular volume caused by gastrointestinal losses (diarrhea or vomiting), severe bleeding, or urinary losses. Inappropriate secretion occurs when none of the mentioned stimuli are present. This secretion is also called syndrome of inappropriate secretion of ADH or SIADH. Certain tumors, certain infections or inflammatory processes can trigger the secretion of ADH. Additional, hypothyroidism is associated to hyponatremia from an increase in the secretion of ADH. The net result of the secretion of ADH is a reduction in the urinary output by retaining as much water as possible. The retained water dilutes the sodium in the plasma causing hyponatremia

Marco A. Ramos MD, CCDS

Any information or statement present in this post does not replace your health care provider’s advice or treatment. This blog does not provide medical advice, prescribe medications or therapies, or diagnose conditions, it only expresses an opinion. If you have a health-related question or condition, confer with your healthcare provider.

- In order to quote from this article please use the following:

Marco A. Ramos, “Hyponatremia for Everyone. #2D. What Causes Hyponatremia?,” SMO Blog (blog), August 1, 2018, https://steemit.com/health/@secondmedicalop/hyponatremia-for-everyone-2d-what-causes-hyponatremia

Read the other sections of this series:

Introduction
What Causes Hyponatremia? A
What Causes Hyponatremia? B
What Causes Hyponatremia? C