Exercise-Associated Hyponatremia: 2017 Update

Abstract

Exercise-associated hyponatremia (EAH) was initially described in the 1980s in endurance athletes, and work done since then has conclusively identified that overdrinking beyond thirst and non-osmotic arginine vasopressin release are the most common etiologic factors. In recent years, EAH has been described in a broader variety of athletic events and also has been linked to the development of rhabdomyolysis. The potential role of volume and sodium depletion in a subset of athletes has also been described. This review focuses on the most recent literature in the field of EAH and summarizes key new findings in the epidemiology, pathophysiology, treatment, and prevention of this condition.

Intended Hydration Strategies and Knowledge of Exercise-Associated Hyponatraemia in Marathon Runners: A Questionnaire-Based Study

“…Perhaps a more targeted approach starting at the grassroots level would help to increase the understanding of this subject area among the running community; recommendations have already been made to broadly target these athletes and to focus on certain roles within a running community. 10…”

“…Those who agreed to participate were given the study questionnaire, which was validated in 2010 (see the Appendix), 10 and asked to complete it at the research station.…”

Fitness professionals’ knowledge and perceptions on hydration and fluid intake: a preliminary study

“…Overhydration is often related to hyponatraemia, a condition of diluted sodium caused by excessive water intake over a short period of time, which has been reported in a small number of recreational and endurance-exercising individuals [23,24]. Increased urination is the result of decreased antidiuretic hormone secretion in order to maintain normal body fluid volume.…”

Management of mental health emergencies in elite athletes: a narrative review

“…Sports-related concussion typically results in only short-lived impairments and is managed by a variable period of cognitive and physical rest 82. The standard treatment for exercise-associated hyponatraemia is intravenous hypertonic saline, although occasionally oral administration may be tried 8. Cold water immersion is used to treat exertional heat stroke 83…”