Too much water in the body can cause a condition called hyponatremia which can cause many health problems.
What causes hyponatremia?
- Certain medications, some painkillers, antidepressants, diuretics can affect hormone function and kidney function. This will make it impossible to maintain healthy sodium levels.
- Heart, Kidney and Liver – Heart failure and certain diseases affecting the kidneys and liver can all lead to fluid accumulation in the body. It reduces the amount of sodium in the body.
- Dehydration- Severe vomiting, diarrhea etc. cause dehydration. This causes the body to lose electrolytes such as sodium and increases antidiuretic hormone levels.
- Drinking more water – a person who has run a long distance will lose a lot of sodium through sweat. Also make sure he drinks a lot of water. This also dilutes the sodium level in the blood. Drinking more water can deplete sodium and further impair kidney function.
- Hormonal changes – Low levels of thyroid hormone and low levels of thyroid hormone can also cause low blood sodium levels due to dysfunction of the adrenal glands, which produce hormones that help maintain the balance of sodium, potassium, and water in the body.
- Age – As we age, certain medications, changes in the body, and certain diseases can alter the body’s sodium balance.
- Athletes – marathon runners, high-intensity activities, etc. who drink a lot of water are all prone to hyponatremia. They would do well to seek medical advice.
