Water intoxication: Excessive water intake can be fatal, Experts warn

Water is essential for survival – but consuming too much of it, especially within a short period, can be harmful.

Water intoxication, also known as hyponatraemia, occurs when an individual drinks an excessive quantity of water in a short time. This dilutes sodium levels in the blood, leading to an imbalance of fluids and swelling of the body’s cells.

Low sodium levels in the blood can cause a range of symptoms, including nausea, vomiting, and bloating. In more severe cases, it may lead to confusion, seizures, brain damage, coma, and even death.

With the current high temperatures, many people are at risk of overhydrating in their attempt to stay cool.

The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMET) has already cautioned that the heat season – typically between February and April – brings elevated temperatures, humidity, and dryness, particularly in the northern regions of the country.

Health professionals warn that these conditions pose serious health risks.

To remain hydrated, the World Health Organization (WHO) recommends a daily fluid intake of 2.7 litres for women and 3.7 litres for men, to be consumed gradually throughout the day.

However, experts caution that drinking excessive amounts of water at once can overwhelm the kidneys, which are only capable of processing approximately 0.8 to 1 litre per hour.

Dr Nnenna Otta, a medical expert at the Federal Teaching Hospital, Abakaliki, noted that athletes, individuals engaged in strenuous activities, and children are particularly susceptible to water intoxication.

She further discussed possible treatments for the condition.

“Children are more prone to water intoxication because their kidneys are still developing and may not efficiently regulate excess water. They tend to drink frequently, even when not thirsty. Caregivers should ensure that children drink appropriate amounts of water and avoid force-feeding them fluids.

“For mild cases, simply reducing water intake and allowing the kidneys to restore balance may suffice. In more severe cases, intravenous sodium infusion is necessary to gradually correct sodium levels. Administering diuretics may also help remove excess water from the patient’s body,” she explained.

Also commenting, Abuja-based neurologist Dr Cyril Okpata explained that although hyponatraemia caused solely by excessive water intake is rare, it can occur – particularly among individuals with psychological conditions that lead to compulsive water consumption.

“Hyponatraemia is usually linked to brain trauma, stroke, or other neurological injuries. It is rare for it to result from water consumption alone, even in hot climates,” he said.

Some residents of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) also shared their experiences.

Festus Osagie recalled a terrifying incident after a football match, when a friend collapsed after drinking water too quickly.

“I was shocked when he collapsed; I thought it was a cardiac arrest. Thankfully, the health team on the ground administered CPR and saved his life.”

Julius Ibikunle shared a personal story: “I was a victim of water intoxication. After finishing my reps at the gym and still panting, I hurriedly drank water. I suddenly couldn’t breathe and struggled to catch my breath. That incident left me with a terrible cough for two years.”

Moses Lawal said, “My father always warned me never to gulp water too quickly, as it could lead to death.”

However, Ms Funmibi Daniels admitted she was unaware of the dangers associated with overhydration.

“Sometimes I’d feel I haven’t had enough water for the day and end up drinking nearly four litres. I never knew excessive water intake could be harmful. We really need more awareness about this,” she exclaimed.

Ms Daniels urged health authorities and the National Orientation Agency to educate Nigerians about proper water intake and the risks of overhydration.

Ifeoma Nwovu