HomeAnswersUrologyhyponatremiaCan excessive daily water intake lead to hyponatremia?

Is drinking excessive water unhealthy for the kidney?

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Published At April 7, 2024
Reviewed AtApril 7, 2024

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

The last two weeks have been full of suffering. I have increased my intake of water since I came to know about the benefits of the same. However, I am scared now that I have read about water intoxication. I have been experiencing headaches and nausea, and I have noticed that I am not urinating as much as I used to. I am really worried that my kidneys are being affected. Could it be that I have consumed too much water and that this is damaging my kidneys? Is there a technique to assess the health of my kidneys? What can I do to fix this if it is a problem? I just want to feel healthy again.

Please help.

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

Thanks for briefing me regarding the problem of concern.

While drinking plenty of water is generally a good idea, it is possible to consume too much water, particularly if you are not used to drinking large amounts. This condition is called hyponatremia, which occurs when the body's sodium levels become too low due to excessive water intake. Symptoms of hyponatremia may include headaches, nausea, vomiting, confusion, and seizures.

Excessive water consumption may result in a disease known as water intoxication or poisoning, which can enlarge the brain and maybe cause severe brain damage or even death.

If you have been consuming large amounts of water and are experiencing symptoms such as headaches, nausea, or decreased urine output, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. Your healthcare provider can perform a physical examination and laboratory tests to check your electrolyte levels and assess the function of your kidneys. It is important to cut back on your water consumption until you can get checked out by a doctor. Your doctor might advise you to drink no more gallons of fluid every day until your electrolyte levels have normalized and your symptoms have improved. They may also recommend consuming foods that are rich in sodium to help replenish your body's sodium levels.

It is also important to address any underlying medical conditions that may be contributing to your excessive thirst or fluid intake, such as diabetes insipidus or kidney disease. Your healthcare provider can provide more detailed information about the potential causes and treatments for hyponatremia and water intoxication based on your specific condition.

I hope I have answered your question.

Let me know if I can assist you further.

Regards.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Vandana Andrews
Dr. Vandana Andrews

General Practitioner

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