Sodium Levels in Relation to Vulvodynia

Sodium blood levels do not appear to have any relationship to vulvodynia (chronic pain in the female genital region); however, cellular sodium levels affect how nerves work and may have an effect on nerves in this area.

Vulvodynia

• This condition has been considered a part of fibromyalgia (chronic generalized muscle pain), which has been attributed to a defective gene that causes electrolyte imbalance at the cellular level. It has also been considered similar to gout, a painful disease of the joints caused by local accumulation of oxalate crystals.

Electrolyte Balance

• Sodium and calcium are positively charged ions. The body strives to balance positive ions with negatively charged ions, including phosphates, and these attract molecules called oxalates, which can crystallize in body tissues and cause or increase irritation and pain. Calcium citrate is used to balance and regulates the metabolism of calcium, potassium and sodium. It also bonds with oxalates in the intestinal tract and reduces them in the urine, which can reduce vulvodynia symptoms.

Mast Cells

• Mast cells are found throughout the body, associated with nerves and blood vessels. When these cells activate, they secrete some substances that provoke immediate allergic inflammation and others hours later that may contribute to chronic inflammation. A compound called cromolyn sodium has been helpful in some cases of vulvodynia when applied topically.