Drinking too little or an excessive amount of water; which is deadlier?

A 35-year-old mom of two from Indiana died of ingesting an excessive amount of water whereas she was on a household journey. Ashley Summers gulped down virtually 1.89 litres of water when she began feeling lightheaded and had a headache because of dehydration. When Summers collapsed later, she was rushed to hospital however could not acquire consciousness. As per medical workforce of the hospital, the younger girl suffered from water intoxication of poisoning, a situation attributable to ingesting water excessively over a brief time frame. Dehydration and water intoxication are each brought on because of imbalance in fluid ranges and each could be deadly if not handled on time. In this text, we’ll talk about if one situation is extra harmful than the opposite and what could be finished to sort out it. (Also learn: 5 telltale signs of dehydration during workout you shouldn’t ignore)

“Water is essential for life, playing a vital role in maintaining bodily functions and overall health. However, like everything in life, moderation is key. Both water intoxication and dehydration are conditions that arise from an imbalance in fluid levels, and understanding their effects is crucial for maintaining our well-being,” says Dr Anurag Aggarwal, Consultant – Internal Medicine, Fortis Escorts Hospital Faridabad as he compares each the situations associated to consumption of water in an interview with HT Digital.

What is water intoxication?

Water intoxication, often known as water poisoning or overhydration, happens when a person consumes an extreme quantity of water, resulting in a dilution of important electrolytes within the bloodstream. This imbalance disrupts the physique’s delicate equilibrium, leading to varied opposed results. Mild signs embrace complications, nausea, and confusion, which might escalate into extra extreme manifestations corresponding to vomiting, seizures, and even coma in excessive instances.

What is dehydration?

Conversely, dehydration happens when the physique loses extra fluids than it takes in, resulting in inadequate water to help regular bodily capabilities. Dehydration may result from components corresponding to extreme sweating, diarrhea, vomiting, or insufficient fluid consumption. Initial signs of dehydration embrace thirst, dry mouth, dizziness, and fatigue, which might progress to extreme issues, together with organ failure, if left untreated.

Both water intoxication and dehydration could be harmful, however their severity and potential for fatality differ primarily based on the extent of the imbalance. Severe dehydration could cause electrolyte imbalances, kidney failure, and different life-threatening issues. It poses a major danger, significantly for susceptible populations like infants, the aged, and people with persistent sicknesses.

Water intoxication vs dehydration: which is extra deadly?

Water intoxication, although much less widespread, could be extra instantly life-threatening because of its fast onset of important electrolyte imbalances. When electrolyte ranges change into dangerously low, it may well result in organ failure and mind swelling, leading to coma and, finally, demise. Athletes, specifically, are vulnerable to water intoxication, as intense bodily exercise can immediate extreme fluid consumption with out sufficient electrolyte replenishment.

“Both water intoxication and dehydration can have serious consequences on the body’s delicate balance. While dehydration can be fatal, especially when left untreated or exacerbated by underlying health conditions, water intoxication presents a more immediate threat due to the rapidity with which it can disrupt critical electrolyte levels,” concludes Dr Aggarwal.

“To maintain optimal health, it’s essential to strike the right balance in fluid intake. Be mindful of your body’s signals and ensure a balanced approach to hydration. Avoid excessive water intake, especially during intense physical activities, and stay hydrated without overdoing it. If you or someone you know exhibits severe symptoms of either water intoxication or dehydration, seek immediate medical attention, as timely intervention can make all the difference in preventing life-threatening complications. Remember, moderation and awareness are key to preserving the body’s natural equilibrium and ensuring a long, healthy life,” provides Dr Aggarwal.