Drinking too much water, also known as water intoxication, is a serious condition that can lead to various symptoms and health complications. It occurs when a person drinks an excessive amount of water in a short period of time, overwhelming the body’s ability to regulate the fluid balance. This can lead to a dilution of the sodium in the blood, causing the body’s cells to swell and disrupting the normal functioning of various organs.
Symptoms of drinking too much water:
Nausea and vomiting: Excessive water intake can cause stomach discomfort and lead to feelings of nausea and vomiting.
Headaches: Drinking too much water can cause headaches and migraines, especially if it leads to changes in blood pressure.
Confusion and disorientation: When the body’s cells are swollen, it can cause confusion and disorientation, especially in older adults.
Seizures: Seizures are a common symptom of water intoxication, particularly in children.
Shortness of breath: Swollen cells can put pressure on the lungs, causing shortness of breath and difficulty breathing.
Swelling: Swelling in various parts of the body, such as the hands, feet, and face, is a common symptom of drinking too much water.
Fatigue and exhaustion: When the body’s cells are swollen, it can cause fatigue and exhaustion, as the body uses up more energy to pump fluids around the body.
Coma: In severe cases of water intoxication, a person can experience a coma, which is a state of unconsciousness.