Beware Of Overhydration This Summer and Its Effects On Your Kidneys

As summer begins to intensify, it is a common belief among all to stay hydrated and consume more fluids. While it is important to keep the body hydrated during summers, people who have medical conditions such as high blood pressure and diabetes have to be wary of over-dehydration during summers. Excess intake of fluids can disturb the electrolyte balance of the body.

Drinking too much water can cause blood sodium levels to fluctuate and in some cases serious health problems. Water intoxication is a condition that develops by accident after drinking too much water, mostly during sporting events or intense workouts. For people suffering from chronic kidney disease or end-stage renal failure, water intake should be restricted as it becomes difficult for them to excrete enough water for kidney failure.

Understand the need of your body

Understanding the need for how much water the body needs to avoid overhydration. One liter of water is actually required per 15 kg of body weight, whatever that may be. The best way to beat the heat of summer without suffering kidney is to consume 50% plain water and other 50% sources like fruits, milk, vegetables, etc., which will balance the electrolyte levels in the body.

How much is needed

• An average male should drink about 14 glasses of fluid daily which is about 3 liters.
• Female adults are required to consume a little more than 2.5 liters, which is 10 glasses of fluid per day. Pregnant women are required to consume up to 11 glasses of fluids every day, and new mothers who are taking 12–13 glasses of fluids, they are advised to take them.
• Children have to drink up to 8 glasses of fluids every day and in addition to liquids, many fresh fruits and vegetables have to be consumed.

Symptoms of overhydration to see in the body

People with kidney problems may have edema due to over-dehydration in which the feet, ankles, and wrists are swollen. This is important to maintain optimal blood pressure as it can present a challenge.

Common symptoms of over-dehydration include:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Headache
• Changes in mental states such as confusion or disorientation

If over-dehydration is left untreated, it can happen,

• Muscle weakness, cramps, or cramps
• Seizures
• Unconsciousness
• Coma

Prevention of overhydration

Treatment depends on the severity of symptoms. Some common steps can be:

• Cutting with a daily intake of fluids.
• Consulting and receiving medication to increase the amount of urine output.
• To find and treat the root cause of overhydration.
• Preventing any medications that may be directly or indirectly responsible for overhydration.
• Reduce or change sodium intake in severe cases.
• Avoid drinking too much water immediately after eating.