| dc.description.abstract | Background: Electrolyte imbalance—particularly involving sodium (Na⁺) and
potassium (K⁺)—plays a central role in the pathophysiology of hypertension
through its effects on fluid balance, vascular tone, and Na⁺/K⁺-ATPase activity.
However, local evidence evaluating serum sodium and potassium profiles among
hypertensive patients remains limited. Objective: To assess the association
between serum sodium and potassium levels with blood pressure among
hypertensive patients, and to examine the influence of family history of
hypertension and smoking history on electrolyte profiles. Methods: A cross
sectional observational study was conducted using secondary medical record data
of hypertensive patients at Prof. dr. Chairuddin P. Lubis Hospital, Medan, from
January to December 2024. Bivariate analyses were performed using Pearson or
Spearman correlation, independent t-test or Mann–Whitney test, and ANOVA or
Kruskal–Wallis test depending on data distribution. A p-value <0.05 was
considered statistically significant. Results: Serum sodium showed a significant
correlation with systolic blood pressure (p < 0.05). Although sodium levels did
not differ by family history, potassium levels demonstrated a significant
difference, with lower mean ranks observed in patients with a positive family
history of hypertension. Smoking history was not associated with either sodium or
potassium levels. These findings suggest that familial predisposition may
modulate electrolyte regulation, whereas smoking likely influences blood pressure
through non-electrolyte pathways. Conclusion: Serum sodium is significantly
associated with blood pressure in hypertensive patients. Family history may
influence potassium regulation, supporting the gene-lifestyle interaction
framework. Smoking does not affect serum electrolyte levels. Future research
should include dietary sodium/potassium assessment, Na⁺/K⁺ ratio analysis,
and genetic markers. | en_US |
