If hypertonic saline is given too rapidly for acute hyponatremia, which complication may occur?

If hypertonic saline is given too rapidly for acute hyponatremia, which complication may occur?

• A. Cerebral edema or central pontine myelinolysis
• B. Hypertension
• C. Hyperkalemia
• D. Hypocalcemia

Answer: (A)

Rapid correction of hyponatremia with hypertonic saline can cause osmotic demyelination syndrome, most notably central pontine myelinolysis. When sodium levels are raised too quickly, the brain that had adapted to the hyponatremic state shrinks too fast, and the myelin in the central nervous system—especially in the pons—can be damaged. This is why controlled, gradual correction is essential, with frequent monitoring to avoid overcorrection. Other listed issues like hypertension, hyperkalemia, or hypocalcemia are not the typical consequence of overly rapid sodium correction.

Rapid correction of hyponatremia with hypertonic saline can cause osmotic demyelination syndrome, most notably central pontine myelinolysis. When sodium levels are raised too quickly, the brain that had adapted to the hyponatremic state shrinks too fast, and the myelin in the central nervous system—especially in the pons—can be damaged. This is why controlled, gradual correction is essential, with frequent monitoring to avoid overcorrection. Other listed issues like hypertension, hyperkalemia, or hypocalcemia are not the typical consequence of overly rapid sodium correction.