Table of contents:
- Definition
- What is the syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion?
- How common is the syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion?
- Signs & symptoms
- What are the signs and symptoms of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion syndrome of inappropriate?
- When should I see a doctor?
- Cause
- What causes the syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion?
- Risk factors
- What increases my risk for inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion syndrome of inappropriate?
- Medicines & Medicines
- What are the treatment options for inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion syndrome of inappropriate?
- What are the usual tests for syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion?
- Home remedies
- What are some lifestyle changes and home remedies that can treat the syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion?
Definition
What is the syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion?
Syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion (SIADH) is a syndrome that affects the balance of water and minerals in your body, particularly sodium.
ADH is a substance that is produced naturally by the hypothalamus and secreted by the pituitary gland. This hormone controls the amount of water in the body that is excreted through urine.
ADH affects the kidneys and blood vessels. ADH-affected kidneys retain more water, reducing the excretion of water from the body. Because there is less water in the urine, the urine will thicken.
Blood vessels under the influence of ADH will constrict / contract to make blood pressure higher and more water to enter the cells. Too much ADH will result in SIADH. The body is unable to excrete water (water retention) and has a lower sodium level in the blood.
How common is the syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion?
SIADH is rare in children. The majority of SIADH patients are people with lung cancer or chronic lung disease. Heart disease (such as high blood pressure) also increases the risk of SIADH.
Signs & symptoms
What are the signs and symptoms of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion syndrome of inappropriate?
SIADH had no symptoms at first. However, if left untreated it can cause:
- nausea or vomiting
- cramps or trembling hands and feet
- depression, memory problems
- uncomfortable feeling
- changes in personality, such as being aggressive, confused and hallucinating
- seizures, in some cases can lead to coma
If for any reason the serum sodium level is reduced, a person with this condition may experience more severe symptoms and possibly seizures.
There may be symptoms not listed above. If you have concerns about a symptom, consult your doctor.
When should I see a doctor?
The symptoms of this disease are similar to the symptoms of other diseases. If you suspect you have SIADH, consult your doctor to identify and start treatment early. This is especially true if you think you have memory problems and epilepsy, or other day-to-day illnesses that make you often feel weak or tired.
Cause
What causes the syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion?
SIADH can be caused by many reasons. The direct cause is due to the influence of the hypothalamus of the brain, which makes the ADH hormone function. Some types of malignant tumors such as lung cancer and chronic lung disease can cause the body to produce more ADH. Heart diseases such as high blood pressure can also cause SIADH.
Risk factors
What increases my risk for inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion syndrome of inappropriate?
SIADH is linked to hydration and sodium levels in the body. If one or both of them are imbalanced it can increase your risk for getting SIADH, risk factors include:
- low blood sodium levels
- having surgery or treatment for a brain tumor
- autoimmune disorders, lung cancer, or other chronic diseases
- meningitis
- head injury and traumatic brain injury
Not having risk factors doesn't mean you can't get this disease. Risk factors are for reference only. Consult your doctor for more information.
Medicines & Medicines
The information provided is not a substitute for medical advice. ALWAYS consult your doctor.
What are the treatment options for inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion syndrome of inappropriate?
SIADH can be treated by excluding the cause (drug or tumor). Water restriction allows the serum sodium level to rise normally. The maximum amount of water that can be drunk is approximately slightly more than the amount of urine excreted. Some people may need a drug called demeclocycline. In an emergency situation your doctor may prescribe a strong diuretic such as furosemide to help remove excess fluid.
What are the usual tests for syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion?
The doctor can make a diagnosis with blood and urine tests which show that the body has too much water which corresponds to the amount of sodium in the body. Other causes of low sodium levels, such as underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) or adrenal deficiency (Addison's disease), must be ruled out before SIADH can be diagnosed.
Home remedies
What are some lifestyle changes and home remedies that can treat the syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion?
The following lifestyle and home remedies can help you treat the syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion:
- limit the amount of water you drink. This may be the only treatment you will need
- understand why you got SIADH. If you treat the underlying cause, SIADH will disappear
- take routine serum sodium measurements
- don't assume you have SIADH just because you have a low sodium level. Other disturbances must also be eliminated
If you have any questions, consult your doctor to understand the best solution for you.
Hello Health Group does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment
