Having too much of a good thing can extend to drinking water. Most athletes are drilled with the importance of drinking water throughout the day and during exercise to prevent dehydration and the dangerous consequences it can bring. But drinking too much water also can have adverse effects on the body -- specifically, a condition called hyponatremia. Hyponatremia occurs when the body's blood sodium levels are abnormally low, as can happen if you consume a lot of water without bringing in sodium as well. In extreme cases, this can be very dangerous and possibly lethal.
Step 1
Take stock of the abnormal symptoms you are experiencing. Hyponatremia can cause several symptoms at once in your body. Symptoms may include nausea and/or vomiting, headaches, confusion, fatigue, lethargy, a loss of appetite, muscle weakness or cramps, restlessness and irritability.
Step 2
Consider your diet over the past few hours. If you have not eaten much food and, instead, have been drinking large amounts of water, this could be cause for overhydration. If you have not been drinking water in large amounts, you are not likely to have consumed enough to overhydrate.
Step 3
Eat a small amount of food that features sodium. Don't be afraid to eat food high in salt, but eat it in small amounts to avoid shocking your system. As the sodium enters your bloodstream, it may alleviate the hyponatremia you are experiencing.
Step 4
Visit a doctor if your symptoms persist. You may need to have medical attention if your overhydration is serious.
Tips and Warnings
- Be aware that having the symptoms of hyponatremia does not necessarily mean you are overhydrated.
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