Water intoxication
Also called: water poisoning
A condition that occurs from drinking too much water, upsetting electrolyte balances.
- Treatable by a medical professional
- Requires a medical diagnosis
- Lab tests or imaging always required
- Short-term: resolves within days to weeks
- Critical: needs emergency care
Drinking too much water can decrease sodium in the blood to dangerously low levels, causing mild to life-threatening problems. People who participate in endurance activities, such as a marathon or triathlon, are at risk.
Rare: Fewer than 200,000 US cases per year
Consult a doctor for medical advice
Sources: Mayo Clinic and others. Learn more
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Drinking too much water can lead to water intoxication, which can be fatal. However, this is rare. Learn about the symptoms, causes, and risk factors here.
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