Water intoxication
Water Intoxication
Water intoxication, also known as hyponatremia or water poisoning, is a potentially fatal disturbance in brain functions that results when the normal balance of electrolytes in the body is pushed outside safe limits by excessive water intake.
Pronunciation
Water intoxication: /ˈwɔːtər ˌɪntɒksɪˈkeɪʃən/
Etymology
The term "water intoxication" is derived from the Latin words "aqua" meaning water, and "intoxicare" meaning to poison.
Definition
Water intoxication occurs when a person drinks so much water that their kidneys can't excrete the excess water. The excess water can dilute the electrolytes in your blood, especially sodium. When sodium levels fall below 135 mmol/L, it is called hyponatremia.
Symptoms
Symptoms of water intoxication include headache, nausea, vomiting, confusion, seizures, and in severe cases, coma or death.
Causes
Water intoxication is usually the result of drinking excessive amounts of plain water which causes a low concentration of electrolytes in the body. This is most common during intense physical activity.
Prevention
Prevention of water intoxication is by understanding the importance of electrolyte balance in the body and not drinking excessive amounts of water during periods of exercise.
Treatment
Treatment of water intoxication includes intravenous administration of saline solution, diuretics, and in severe cases, hemodialysis.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Water intoxication
- Wikipedia's article - Water intoxication
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