Overhydration can be a serious problem.
Here’s what you better know.
We hear so much about drinkingenough waterthese days that it might seem like theres no such thing as overhydrating.
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Consuming too much water in too short a time can actually be dangerousor even deadly.
Recently, multiple news stories have cropped up about people who have died of so-called water intoxication.
Heres what to know about getting enough, not guzzling too much.
What is Overhydration?
To maintain proper fluid levels, your body is constantly calibrating a delicate balance ofelectrolytes.
These includesodium, potassium, magnesium, chloride, and others.
This can ultimately create a condition called hyponatremia.
(Normal blood sodium levels are typically from 136-145 mEq/L.)
With too much water and not enough sodium in the blood, your body cant perform essential functions.
Some medications do the same.
Antihypertensives, corticosteroids, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are all known to cause fluid retention.
It frequently occurs after participating in a high-intensity athletic event.
It makes sense, of course.
After sweaty, strenuous exercise, were driven to replenish our bodys fluid stores.
But losing electrolytes through sweat and flushing your system with tons of water can be a dangerous combo.
Signs and Symptoms
The signs of overhydration can start subtly.
It may initially be difficult to tell these symptoms apart from overexertion.
Left untreated, though, water intoxication may progress to more serious neurological effects.
As the brain cells swell with too much water, it can lead to coma and even death.
This can determine whether your sodium levels have dipped into the danger zone of hyponatremia.
Some doctors may also use a urine test to diagnose the condition.
If it turns out you do have water intoxication, your treatment options vary.
The typical treatment approach to overhydration/hyponatremia depends on the severity of the condition, says Chun.
For optimum health, start by listening to your bodys cues.
Drinking to your level of thirst is usually a reliable means of properly hydrating.
When in doubt, it’s possible for you to also stick to public health guidelines for hydration.
Remember, too, that downing an entire days worth of water in one sitting isnt the goal.
TheCDCrecommends no more than 48 ounces of water per hour.
And dont forget that water isnt the only way to hydrate.
Theres definitely a time and place for electrolyte drinks, too.
