Serum Sodium and Potassium Profile (Mass Concentration)
This test measures the levels of sodium and potassium in your blood, two key minerals that help balance fluids and support normal heart and muscle function.
["Check your mineral balance and heart health with sodium and potassium levels."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 44783-9
- Short code
- Sodium (Study max) SerPl-sCnc
- Synonyms
- Sodium (Study max) SerPl-sCnc
- Category
- electrolyte
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 136
- Ref high
- 145
- Critical range
- 120 N/A – 160 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 84295
- SNOMED
- 110741000
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Is Done
Your doctor may order this test to evaluate your electrolyte levels, especially if you have symptoms like muscle weakness, confusion, irregular heartbeat, or signs of dehydration or fluid imbalance. It can also help diagnose conditions like high blood pressure, kidney problems, or hormonal imbalances.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed for this test. You may have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw blood. If you’re on a low-sodium diet or taking certain medications, let your doctor know beforehand.
How the Results Are Interpreted
Results are compared to standard ranges for healthy adults. Abnormal levels can indicate issues like dehydration, kidney disease, or conditions affecting your heart or nerves.
Common Conditions This Test Helps Diagnose
This test helps identify electrolyte imbalances that may cause symptoms like fatigue, muscle cramps, or irregular heartbeat. It can also help monitor conditions like heart failure, kidney disease, or adrenal disorders.
Reference range
Adult: 136-145 mmol/LN/A
No special preparation required. Stay well hydrated.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Sodium and potassium are vital for maintaining fluid balance, nerve function, and muscle contractions. Low levels of either can lead to serious health risks, including heart rhythm disturbances or seizures. High levels may cause swelling, confusion, or even coma. Your doctor will use these results to guide treatment, such as adjusting medications or dietary changes.
Short name
Sodium/Potassium Study
Frequently asked questions
What causes sodium levels to be too high or low?
How long does it take to get results?
Can I eat or drink anything before the blood draw?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy