For our body to function properly, it is most important that we keep drinking sufficient amount of water. But do you know that drinking too much water can also prove to be very harmful for health. Today in this article we will talk about water poisoning in detail. A 74-year-old man named John Putnam from Texas showed symptoms like a heart attack after drinking too much water.
During the night, she began to feel extremely tired and nauseous, which later turned into shortness of breath and chest pain, reports the Daily Mail. Putnam was rushed to the hospital because she thought she was having a heart attack; however, it was later discovered that she had water poisoning, which is caused by too much water and a loss of sodium in the body.
What is water poisoning?
Water poisoning is a condition in which a person experiences intoxication or hyperhydration as soon as he drinks water, a condition that occurs when the body has too much water compared to the level of electrolytes in the blood. Electrolytes are minerals such as sodium, potassium and calcium that help regulate the body’s fluid levels and maintain muscle function.
When we drink water, it enters our body and blood circulation is greatly affected by it. The kidneys then filter out the excess water and expel it through urine. However, drinking excessive amounts of water can disturb this balance and reduce the electrolyte levels in the blood. This can lead to an imbalance of fluids in the body and cause water poisoning.
symptoms of water poisoning
nausea and vomiting
Headache
confusion and disorientation
Tiredness
muscle weakness
Cramps in hands and feet
Tours
Coma
Which people are at risk of water poisoning?
Athletes and people who do heavy workouts are at a higher risk of water poisoning because such people drink a lot of water to keep themselves hydrated. Apart from this, some serious conditions like kidney disease or heart failure can arise.
In addition, babies and young children are also at risk as their bodies are small and excess liquid can prove dangerous for them. Parents should be careful when giving water to their children and always follow the recommended guidelines.
How much water is good for the body?
The amount of water required varies according to the body type of each person. Water should be drunk according to age, weight and health. Adults should drink 8 glasses of water a day. Which is approximately equal to 2 liters. On the other hand, if the weather is hot and you do a lot of physical activity, then you can increase the amount of water.
Disclaimer: Some of the information given in the news is based on media reports. Before implementing any suggestion, please consult the concerned expert.
Also read: Weight Loss: How much weight should one lose in a month? Are you also making this mistake?
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