Washington, July 7 -- Scientists have developed a new method to monitor sodium levels in the blood without drawing a single drop.

By combining terahertz radiation and optoacoustic detection, they created a non-invasive system that tracks sodium in real-time, even through the skin. The approach bypasses traditional barriers, such as water interference, and opens up the potential for fast and safe diagnostics in humans.

Accurate measurement of blood sodium is essential for diagnosing and managing conditions such as dehydration, kidney disease and certain neurological and endocrine disorders.

Terahertz radiation, which falls between microwaves and the mid-infrared region of the electromagnetic spectrum, is ideal for biological application...