Can I drink a lot of water?
The problem of water shortage is very popular among the public. However, it also raises the question: is it possible to drink a lot of water? What are the consequences of excessive fluid consumption?
What is an overdose of water?
We are talking about hypotonic conduction when the kidneys are unable to filter the supplied fluid. This problem leads to a loss of optimal acid-base balance, which leads to a disturbance in the normal electrolyte balance. This, in turn, is the cause of a number of other anomalies that lead to a change in the proper functioning of the body.
The condition in which one consumes a lot of water is observed mainly in athletes. Endurance athletes (eg, runners and marathoners) who are subjected to prolonged fatigue are constantly replenishing lost fluid stores. Besides water, they also consume large amounts of isotonic drinks to improve hydration of the body. The athlete's poorly planned hydration strategy may be the cause of the reported delivery.
How do we know that we drink too much water?
The body begins to react very quickly to excessive fluid intake. After all, since the capacity of the bladder and stomach is limited, the first sign is frequent use of the toilet. Constant visits to the toilet during the day, and even waking up at night, are sure signs of excessive water consumption. Also pay attention to the color of the urine - if it is very transparent, then it must be diluted.
Dilute urine indicates an electrolyte imbalance mentioned earlier. If you drink a lot of water, there may be an increased potassium loss. This element is responsible for the proper functioning of the muscles, so its deficiency is manifested in involuntary and painful
contractions. Cramps appear mainly in the lower extremities, especially in the calf muscles. Potassium is also a mineral that regulates blood pressure. So it is easy to associate the problem of water overdose with symptoms that indicate high blood pressure.
- Drink a lot of water - Effects
- excessive weakness
- appetite problems
- Noticeable irregularity in the pupils
- Feeling sick and vomiting
- Seizures, confusion, slow heartbeat
The presence of the above hypotensive conduction symptoms is an important reason to establish appropriate management. If left untreated, an overdose of water can cause metabolic acidosis, permanent nervous system damage, coma, and even death.
How do you treat the effects of conduction?
The most effective way is to sustainably fill the resulting mineral deficiency, especially sodium. Treatment, which is carried out in the hospital, depends strictly on the duration of the water overdose and the amount of the missing component. An affected person should gradually restore the electrolyte balance, since an intense and rapid intake of sodium can lead to a number of negative consequences.