Risk factors. Certain behaviors and characteristics increase the tendency to develop hyponatremia. For one, active people who do not get enough sodium in the diet are prone to developing this condition. Sodium exists in many foods, especially table salt and various seasonings. Another risk factors is kidney disease, which can cause excessive urination. Urine contains the water that was not absorbed into the bloodstream, as well as salt. Taking medications that remove salt and water from the system or drinking excessive caffeinated beverages can also contribute. Yet another factor is age; as the body ages, it becomes less able to absorb certain nutrients from food. Taking sodium supplements can counteract this.
