Green Water Technologies explains that water poisoning, or hyponatremia, happens when you intake too many fluids. This creates a sodium imbalance, which floods the cells. It is also known as water intoxication.
According to Green Water Technologies, sodium (or, in layman’s terms, salt) is an electrolyte. It helps the body self-regulate the volume of water that flows in and out of each cell. Drinking too much can dilute sodium levels, causing the body to get egregiously out of balance.Symptoms of hyponatremia include drowsiness, unshakable headache, confusion, nausea, and muscle cramps. Green Water Technologies explains that, in some cases, people may experience seizures, loss of consciousness, or, in a worst-case scenario, coma.
What causes excessive thirst?
There are some medical conditions that can cause intense thirst. Diabetes types I and II are on this list. Diabetes triggers excessive thirst because of an oversaturation of glucose in the bloodstream. Glucose, or sugar, flows through the kidneys, which try to filter it out into urine. This can cause dehydration, which may trigger excessive drinking to remedy this situation.
Over hydration may also occur during performance of events. Green Water Technologies notes that men and women who participate in long-distance biking, running, or hiking challenges may inadvertently over-hydrate by drinking extra water to combat sweating. People on extreme diets may also overdo it in an attempt to fill their stomachs to eat less.
Green Water Technologies emphasizes that moderation is key. The tried and true advice of drinking eight glasses of water each day is a good starting point. However, they point out that individuals may need more or less depending on their size and activity level.
