Excessive water intake can lead to which electrolyte imbalance?

Excessive water intake can lead to hyponatremia, a condition characterized by low sodium levels in the blood. When an individual consumes too much water, it dilutes the sodium present in their body, resulting in a lower concentration of sodium in the bloodstream. Sodium is a crucial electrolyte responsible for maintaining fluid balance, nerve function, and muscle contractions.

In the context of excessive hydration, the body struggles to expel the surplus water, overwhelming the kidneys' ability to excrete it. This leads to a dilutional effect on sodium levels, ultimately causing hyponatremia. Symptoms can range from mild (nausea, headache) to severe (confusion, seizures, and even coma) as the body adapts to these abnormal sodium levels. Understanding this condition emphasizes the importance of balanced fluid intake to maintain proper electrolyte levels in the body.