Throughout our lives, we were told to drink at least eight glasses of water per day. Some people drink more than eight glasses; others go to the point of drinking an entire case of bottled water. Drinking water has many benefits for our bodies.
Can you really drink too much water?
The answer is yes. Drinking too much water can lead to water intoxication, or water poisoning. Water intoxication refers to a disturbance in the brain when the normal balance of electrolytes in the body is beyond the safety limitations via over-hydration.
Accidentally drinking too much water is very rare. The majority of death as a result of water intoxication are in relation to normal persons participating in activities, such as water-drinking contents (contests where participants are to consume a substantial amount of water) and/or over exercising (where a person is drinking an exercise an excessive amount of water).
Like any liquid substances, which can become a poison when it is over-consumed within a particular period of time; there is no exception with water. Water intoxication becomes a factor when it is over-consumed in a substantial amount without a consistent electrolyte intake.
What Are The Symptoms Of Water Intoxication?
In the case of water intoxication, the following symptoms may occur:
- Confusion
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- In severe cases, seizures, coma, and death
In addition, some people may also be experiencing symptoms in connection
with:
- Body as a whole: imbalance in water electrolyte
- Muscular: muscle weakness, walking abnormal, cramping, also excessive urination, confusion, and sleepiness
- Gastrointestinal: vomiting, water retention, and/or nausea.
Water Intoxication Treatments
Treatment for this condition may include some changes to your diet. These usually range from fluid restrictions to IV fluids high in sodium and some medications.
In terms of self care, reduction in the amount of water that is consumed is imperative. Reduce your water intake to treat fluid overload.
Drinking water provides many benefits for our bodies, in fact, our bodies are largely made from water. However, if there is excessive consumption of water, then there will be dire consequences and in rare cases, death may occur. Bottom line: drink water in moderation.