Hyperhydration

Drinking excessive amounts of water can lead to several serious health issues, despite its many benefits. Water helps in detoxification, maintaining the stomach and other organs, and distributing nutrients to the body’s cells. It plays a crucial role in digestion and prevents dehydration of organs. However, consuming anything beyond its normal rate can cause several issues, and water is no exception.

Drinking excessive water can cause water intoxication and lower sodium levels, which can be fatal.

Generally, it is recommended to drink 3 to 3.7 liters of water for males and 2 to 2.7 liters for females daily. This amount may increase during pregnancy, breastfeeding, heavy exercise, vomiting, or diarrhea.

Some harms of drinking excessive water include:

_Low Sodium Levels in the Body: Some effects of water intoxication include lowering the levels of electrolytes, especially sodium, which can drop to less than 135 mmol/L. This is a dangerous condition that can be fatal. Sometimes, low sodium levels can cause an imbalance of fluids inside and outside cells, leading to cell dehydration. This can increase pressure on brain cells, reducing their effectiveness and causing brain cell death due to high pressure or fluid-electrolyte imbalance. Dizziness is one symptom of low sodium levels, affecting about 14% of patients, and in severe cases, it can cause unconsciousness. If a patient experiences these symptoms, they should see a doctor.

_Wide-Ranging Symptoms These include nausea, vomiting, digestive issues, loss of appetite, and acid-base imbalance.

_Central Nervous System Effects: This can damage nerve cells, causing headaches, lethargy, and confusion.

_Severe Symptoms in Critical Cases: These include high blood pressure, difficulty breathing, and muscle cramps and weakness.

_Liver Issues

_Increased Sweating

_skin problems