A woman died after drinking water

Drinking too much water in a short time can lead to water intoxication, disrupting the body’s electrolyte balance and causing a rapid drop in sodium levels.

This rare condition can have serious consequences, as happened to a 36-year-old woman who died after quickly drinking a large amount of water during a boat ride. Her family now warns of this danger, especially for people involved in intense physical activities or who have certain conditions.

Symptoms of water intoxication include confusion, fatigue, headache, seizures and coma. To prevent this phenomenon, it is recommended to alternate the consumption of water with drinks and foods rich in electrolytes. The body’s cells need water to function properly, but overhydration occurs when too much water is consumed. There is no single formula for how much water a person should drink daily. The classic recommendation of eight glasses (about 2 liters) per day is only a starting point, and the amount should be adjusted according to the environment, physical activity and health status. Adults need 25-40 ml/Kg body/day, and children 100 ml/Kg body/day.

What happens if you drink too much water?

Excessive water consumption can lead to water intoxication or impaired brain function. This happens when cells, including brain cells, swell from excess water, causing pressure in the brain and symptoms such as confusion, drowsiness and headaches. If the pressure rises, it can cause hypertension and bradycardia.

“Excess water can be dangerous to our health because it can induce dilutional hyponatremia with secondary cerebral edema, manifested by headache, vomiting, confusion, drowsiness and coma,” he explained, for smartliving.roDr. Alina Lăcătuș, specialist in nephrology and nutrition.

Sodium, essential for fluid balance in and out of cells, is most affected by overhydration. Low sodium levels due to excess water can lead to cell swelling and the risk of seizures, coma or death.

He died after drinking too much water

Ashley Summers, a 36-year-old woman from the US, died unexpectedly on July 6 after a boating trip with her family. Because of the heat and thirst, he drank 2 liters of water in 20 minutes. He passed out soon after and never woke up. Doctors found that excess water caused the cells to swell and restrict blood flow to the brain.

Excessive water consumption in a short time can exceed the kidneys’ ability to remove fluid, leading to fluid accumulation and electrolyte imbalances. Experts emphasize the importance of alternating water consumption with fluids containing electrolytes, such as energy drinks or healthy snacks, to maintain a proper balance of fluids and electrolytes in the body.