Sodium, Direct Unit Converter

Direct sodium is a measurement of sodium concentration in your blood using a direct ion-selective electrode (ISE) method. Unlike indirect methods that dilute the sample first, direct ISE analyzes undiluted blood, providing a more accurate result.

Sodium is the primary electrolyte in your blood and extracellular fluid. It plays a central role in maintaining water balance, blood pressure, and proper nerve and muscle function. Normal sodium levels typically range from 135 to 145 mEq/L (milliequivalents per liter).

Direct sodium measurement is particularly important in patients with high lipid or protein levels, where indirect methods may produce falsely low readings (pseudohyponatremia).

Sodium enters the body through food and drink, primarily as sodium chloride (table salt). The kidneys regulate sodium levels by adjusting how much is excreted in urine, while smaller amounts are lost through sweat and stool.