Low Blood Sodium Levels Can Cause Anxiety by Altering Brain Chemistry in Mice
Chronic hyponatremia, or low blood sodium, can lead to anxiety behaviors in mice by disrupting brain neurotransmitters. New research highlights potential neurological impacts of this common condition and the importance of proper treatment.
Recent research has uncovered that chronic hyponatremia, a condition characterized by persistently low sodium levels in the blood, can directly induce anxiety-like behaviors in mice through disruption of brain chemicals. Traditionally viewed as a silent condition, hyponatremia—often caused by illnesses such as liver cirrhosis, heart failure, or syndrome of inappropriate antidiuresis (SIAD)—has now been linked to neurological and psychological effects.
In a study published in Molecular Neurobiology, scientists from Fujita Health University in Japan demonstrated that low blood sodium levels interfere with monoaminergic signaling in the amygdala, a brain region involved in emotion and fear processing. The research team, led by Professor Yoshihisa Sugimura, showed that mice with induced CHN exhibited increased anxiety behaviors in standard behavioral tests, such as the light/dark transition and open field assessments.
Biochemical analysis revealed significant reductions in serotonin and dopamine levels in the amygdala of these mice, along with decreased ERK phosphorylation, a molecular marker related to emotional regulation. These findings suggest that hyponatremia disturbs the delicate balance of mood-regulating neurotransmitters within key brain regions.
The team also found that correcting sodium levels by ceasing desmopressin infusion and switching to a normal diet alleviated anxiety behaviors and normalized neurotransmitter levels. This indicates that the psychological effects of hyponatremia are reversible with proper treatment.
While the study was conducted on mice, implications for humans are clear, especially considering that chronic hyponatremia is common among older adults and individuals with chronic illnesses. Recognizing and managing hyponatremia could mitigate associated neurological and psychological symptoms, potentially improving quality of life.
This research underscores that hyponatremia is not merely a metabolic abnormality but a condition with significant neurological consequences. Early diagnosis and intervention could be crucial in preventing or alleviating anxiety linked to low sodium levels.
Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-06-sodium-blood-triggers-anxiety-mice.html
Stay Updated with Mia's Feed
Get the latest health & wellness insights delivered straight to your inbox.
Related Articles
Innovative Harm-Reduction Vending Machines Provide Free Access to Naloxone, Pregnancy Tests, and Hygiene Supplies
Innovative harm-reduction vending machines in Pennsylvania provide free access to naloxone, pregnancy tests, hygiene supplies, and health resources, supporting vulnerable populations and reducing overdose deaths.
Common Nasal Spray Shows Promise in Reducing COVID-19 Infection Risk
A clinical study shows that a common antihistamine nasal spray with azelastine can cut COVID-19 infection risk by nearly two-thirds, offering a promising preventive tool against the virus.
New Insights into How the Brain Constructs Neural Networks for Motor Memories
Recent research reveals how the brain constructs and refines neural networks for motor memories, offering new insights into movement learning and potential therapies for Parkinson's disease.
New Research Reveals High Prevalence of Multiple Chronic Conditions among Hospital Patients in Malawi and Tanzania
A recent study reveals that nearly 50% of hospital admissions in Malawi and Tanzania involve patients with multiple chronic conditions, highlighting a critical public health challenge in sub-Saharan Africa.