Lithium: The Salt
The use of lithium can be complicated, and there are many aspects that can be discussed. For now, I will focus on the fact that lithium is a salt. This is something that seems to be forgotten at times.
Since lithium is a salt (lithium chloride) closely related to sodium, the kidneys will treat them in a similar fashion. If a person is dehydrated, the kidneys will try to retain salt in order to increase total body fluid volume. Therefore, until that fluid volume is replenished, excess salt will be resorbed and an increase in the levels of sodium and lithium can occur. Significant dehydration (such as can occur with vomiting and/or diarrhea) can potentially lead to lithium toxicity. Unfortunately, lithium toxicity can lead to nausea and diarrhea, resulting in further dehydration.
Lithium can also compete with sodium for resorption by the renal tubules and potentially lower the level of sodium in a person’s body. Those taking lithium need to maintain a regular diet with adequate salt intake and hydration.
Partial References:
HealthyPlace.com
Bipolar World