Role of Sodium and Sodium Restriction in Heart Failure

AbstractPurpose of ReviewSodium plays an essential role in the regulation of extracellular volume. The current review discusses the physiologic handling of sodium in the body, underscores pathophysiologic alterations in sodium handling in heart failure and assesses the evidence and rational for sodium restriction in heart failure.Recent FindingsRecent trials such as the SODIUM-HF trial have failed to demonstrate a benefit of sodium restriction in heart failure. The current review re-evaluates physiologic elements in sodium handling and discusses how the intrinsic renal sodium avidity, which drives the renal propensity towards retaining sodium, differs amongst patients.SummaryThe sodium intake in heart failure patients is often above the threshold set by guidelines. This review gives an overview of the pathophysiology of sodium retention in heart failure and the rational for sodium restriction and potential of individualizing sodium restriction recommendations based on renal sodium avidity profiles.
Source: Current Heart Failure Reports - Category: Cardiology Source Type: research