Aubrey Kinsman, PA-C, with the FirstHealth Heart Failure Clinic, talks about the relationship between sodium, the heart and the brain.
What is sodium and how does it affect the body?
Sodium is a mineral and electrolyte that helps regulate fluid balance, nerve function and muscle contraction. The body can have too much or too little sodium.
How does sodium affect heart disease and heart failure?
Sodium has a significant impact on the heart. Increased amounts of sodium can increase blood pressure because it causes the body to hold on to more fluid, which in turn will increase the volume of blood in the vessels. When blood pressure is increased, it will increase the workload on the heart, which will increase the risk of heart disease such as coronary artery disease and heart failure.
How is sodium related to stroke?
Increased sodium intake has been linked to increased risk of stroke due to its effect on blood pressure. Chronically elevated blood pressure is the leading risk factor for both ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke.
How important is it to monitor your sodium intake?
It is important to monitor your sodium intake to maintain overall health. Consuming too much sodium can increase the risk of high blood pressure significantly, which then raises the likelihood of heart disease and stroke. It is recommended to limit sodium intake to 1500-2000 mg of sodium daily. If diet modification alone is not enough, there are medications that can also help.
Heart Failure Care at FirstHealth
Heart failure is a serious illness, usually with no cure. However, the compassionate professionals at FirstHealth Heart Failure Clinic will partner with you to help you reduce your chances of being admitted to the hospital and improve your quality of life.
