Overhydration: A Serious Water Problem

7/1/2022 (Permalink)

Overhydration

We tell kids all the time about the dangers of dehydration. How they need to make sure they’re drinking enough water especially while they’re outside or exercising. What we might not realize is that while dehydration is dangerous, so is the opposite extreme, overhydration. Overhydration can lead to water intoxication. This occurs when the amount of salt and other electrolytes in your body becomes too diluted. If your electrolytes drop too low too quickly, it can be fatal. That’s why it’s so important to know the symptoms of overhydration and what to do if you’re experiencing it. Healthline has a list of both the symptoms and treatments of overhydration to help you be prepared;

• Symptoms
• Nausea and vomiting
• Headache
• Changes in mental state such as confusion or disorientation
• Muscle weakness, spasms, or cramps
• Seizures
• Unconsciousness
• Coma
• Treatments
• Cutting back on your fluid intake
• Taking diuretics to increase the amount of urine you produce
• Treating the condition that caused the overhydration
• Stopping any medications causing the problem
• Replacing sodium in severe cases

The best way to avoid overhydration is simpler than it may seem. Let thirst also guide you when exercising. If you’re thirsty, drink more. It really is as simple as that. Getting tired and thirsty during exercise or on hot days is completely natural. And not drinking during those activities can be very dangerous. But so is overcompensating by constantly drinking. Like anything else in life, the key is balance. Drink when your body tells you it’s time and exercise responsibly. That way you can avoid major health problems and still have a ton of fun.

As always, if disaster strikes, SERVPRO of Springfield and SERVPRO of Morgan, Cass, Macoupin & Montgomery Counties are always here for you. We can be reached 24/7 at 217-528-7775.