Physical Therapy Assistant Practice Exam

How can exercise influence sodium levels in the body?

1. By increasing sodium retention

2. By decreasing sodium levels

3. By stabilizing sodium levels

4. By fluctuating sodium levels

The correct answer is: By decreasing sodium levels

Exercise can influence sodium levels in the body primarily by promoting the retention and regulation of fluids and electrolytes. During physical activity, the body sweats to help regulate temperature, which leads to the loss of sodium and other electrolytes. As a result, this increased perspiration can lead to a decrease in sodium levels in the bloodstream. Additionally, prolonged exercise or exercise done in hot environments can accelerate this effect, making it crucial for individuals to replenish sodium lost during exercise through hydration that contains electrolytes. Through this process, the body's feedback mechanisms work to maintain homeostasis, which may involve adjusting sodium absorption in the kidneys or encouraging dietary intake post-exercise to restore levels. Thus, recognizing the role exercise plays in reducing sodium levels offers critical insight into how hydration and electrolyte balance should be managed during and after physical activities, particularly in athletic populations or during endurance events.