Osmolality, Serum
Understanding Osmolality, Serum
What is Osmolality, Serum?
The Osmolality, Serum test measures the concentration of particles in your blood serum to evaluate your body's fluid status, kidney function, and electrolyte balance. It provides valuable information about hydration levels and the ability of your organs to properly regulate bodily functions. This test is done to diagnose and monitor hyponatremia (low sodium levels) and osmolar gap; evaluate kidney function and assess electrolyte imbalances; understand fluid status in patients with certain medical conditions; and monitor the effectiveness of treatment for various disorders affecting fluid and electrolyte balance. This test may be recommended if you have symptoms such as confusion, seizures, or weakness that could be related to hyponatremia or electrolyte imbalances; have a history of kidney or liver disease; are undergoing treatment that affects fluid or electrolyte balance; or if you show signs of dehydration or overhydration.
What is Osmolality, Serum used for?
The test checks the water balance of the body. The doctor orders the test if a patient shows symptoms like dehydration, low sodium level, problematic urination, poisoning from ethanol, ethylene glycol or methanol.