Included with every panel
Baseline labs come free with any panel you build.
Metabolism & organs
Sodium test
Major electrolyte; evaluates hydration and brain/kidney homeostasis. Included with every panel.
At a glance
In about 5 days
Most results are ready in about 5 days. Some specialty markers can take up to 21 days.
Check before your draw
This marker has no preparation tag, but it can still need preparation. Contact us before your draw if you’re not sure.
Walk in at Quest
Your lab order arrives by email. Most Quest locations take walk-ins, so bring it with a photo ID.
What it measures
Sodium is a mineral, best known as part of table salt. In your blood, it helps control how much water your body holds and keeps your nerves and muscles working.
Why it matters for women
Morning sickness that won’t let up can throw sodium and other salts out of balance. Water pills and some antidepressants can lower sodium, and that can become more common with age. Drinking large amounts of water during long workouts or races can lower it too.
You might check it if…
- you get headaches, nausea or confusion without a clear reason
- you take water pills or an antidepressant
- you’ve had a lot of vomiting, diarrhea or heavy sweating
- you drink large amounts of water during long workouts
What your result may mean
High Sodium: what it may mean
High sodium (hypernatremia) may mean there’s too little water for the salt in your blood, as can happen with dehydration, low fluid intake or heavy sweating. Vomiting, diarrhea or a fever can add to fluid loss, and morning sickness that won’t let up can throw sodium and other salts out of balance. A rare hormone problem called diabetes insipidus can also make the body lose too much water. Thirst, a dry mouth, restlessness or confusion can set in. Older adults can feel less thirsty, so a high level may go unnoticed for a while.
Low Sodium: what it may mean
Low sodium (hyponatremia) may follow drinking large amounts of water, such as during long workouts or races, or taking diuretics or some antidepressants, and that risk can grow with age. Heart, liver, kidney or hormonal conditions can also lower it. Morning sickness that won’t let up can throw salts out of balance too. Larger drops can cause headache, nausea or confusion, while a small dip may go unnoticed. Very high blood sugar can also pull water into the blood and lower sodium.
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These notes provide context and do not diagnose a condition. Not yet available in NY, NJ, RI, HI, ND, SD or WV.