What condition is characterized by excessively low sodium levels in the body?

Hyponatremia is the condition that describes excessively low sodium levels in the body. Sodium is a crucial electrolyte that helps regulate fluid balance, blood pressure, and muscle and nerve function. When sodium levels drop significantly, various physiological problems can arise, including confusion, seizures, and even coma in severe cases.

In assessing hydration status and managing athletes, recognizing hyponatremia is particularly important, especially during long-duration events. During these events, if athletes consume excessive amounts of water without sufficient sodium intake, they risk diluting their blood sodium concentration, leading to hyponatremia. Understanding this condition is essential for any running coach to ensure that athletes maintain proper electrolyte balance and avoid complications that may arise during training and competition.

The other options pertain to different conditions: dehydration refers to insufficient fluid levels in the body but does not specifically indicate low sodium, hypernatremia describes high sodium levels, and hypoglycemia involves abnormally low blood sugar levels.