What is Overhydration and Why is it Dangerous?

While it’s essential we remain hydrated in order to maintain good health, overhydration could create a problem. As with everything else in life, balance is key and drinking too much water can be very dangerous. 

What is Overhydration?

Overhydration, also known as water intoxication or hyponatremia, occurs when someone takes in more water than their bodies can process. This can lead to an imbalance in electrolytes, especially sodium, which play a crucial role in regulating fluids within our cells. 

An imbalance like this can cause serious and even life-threatening consequences because, when sodium levels fall below the norm, someone could go into hyponatremia. This happens when cells, especially in the brain, swell with water. 

Although overhydration happens far more infrequently than dehydration, the answer to, “Is overhydration bad?” is a resounding yes.