So here we are, back for another night. Weather’s getting better again, thank goodness. There are a lot of thing’s I like about today’s outfit. The entire mix of things just really works. The colors are gorgeous and the design of the blouse is really unique. Calling this ” The Perfect Mix Of Color And Design”.

My jewelry and my FitBit Combo pull in all the colors from the blouse. I made this jewelry last year especially for this top. It is a thrift store purchase by the way .

Tonight we’ll be discussing overhydration which can be potentially life threatening. For this I will be using something from healthline,com, titled ” Overhydration”.

WHAT IS OVERHYDRATION?

Nearly all the major systems in your body depend on water to work properly. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day aids in regulating body temperature, preventing constipation, flushing waste products out of the body and many other important functions.

Many people, especially those who exercise in hot weather, are more concerned with not drinking enough water. However, overhydration–or drinking too much water–is also a potentially deadly condition, one that can throw off the balance of water and sodium in the body.

TYPES OF OVERHYDRATION

The amount of water in the body is carefully controlled by two processes: urine production in the kidneys, and the thirst response. This careful balance can be thrown off at either end, either because of disease or by a person consciously overriding his or her own thirst. When too much water collects in the body, it can lead to water intoxication or dangerously low levels of sodium in the blood (Hyponatremia).

There are two types of overhydration : increased water intake and retaining water.

1. Increased water intake–or drinking more water than the kidneys can get rid of in the urine–can cause too much water to collect in the body.

2. When the body is unable to get rid of excess water, it is said to be retaining water. This happens with several medical conditions, for instance. It can be dangerous because it throws off the balance of water and sodium in the blood.

WHAT CAUSES OVERHYDRATION?

Overhydration caused by drinking too much water can occur both consciously and unconsciously. For example, a person may drink too much water during exercise. Some medications may also cause dry mouth and cause an increase in thirst. Increased thirst can also be caused by uncontrolled diabetes. Psychiatric conditions such as schizophrenia can also cause compulsive water drinking.

Overhydration caused by water retention is often the result of medical conditions such as:

1. liver disease(cirrhosis)

2. kidney problems

3. congestive heart failure

4. syndrome of inappropriate anti-diuretic hormone(SIADH)

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF OVERHYDRATION?

Symptoms of overhydration may not be recognized in the early stages but can include:

1. nausea and vomiting

2. headache

3. changes in mental state (confusion or disorientation)

If left untreated, overhydration can lead to dangerously low levels of sodium in the blood(Hyponatremia). This can cause more severe symptoms such as:

1. muscle weakness, spasms, or cramps

2. seizures

3. unconsciousness

4. coma

HOW IS OVERHYDRATION DIAGNOSED?

To determine whether symptoms are caused by overhydration or another condition, a doctor may conduct a medical history, a physical evaluation, and blood and urine tests.

HOW IS OVERHYDRATION TREATED?

Treatment of overhydration depends on the severity of the symptoms and the underlying reason. It may include:

1. cutting back on fluid and salt intake

2. diuretics to increase how much urine is produced

3. medication to reduce such symptoms as nausea, seizures, headache

4. treatment of underlying medical conditions

HOW CAN OVERHYDRATION BE PREVENTED?

Endurance athletes can reduce the risks of overhydration by weighing themselves before and after a race to determine how much water they have lost and need to replenish.

Individuals should avoid drinking more than one liter per hour of fluid. Drinking more fluids before and during a race or an intensive athletic exertion can also help you avoid the need to drink too much water afterwards. Sports beverages that contain the electrolytes sodium and potassium are also recommended, as they both are lost in sweat.

If you have an underlying medical condition, such as diabetes, congestive heart failure, or kidney problems, talk with your doctor about the best treatment for those conditions. If you experience excessive thirst or an overly strong urge to drink water, contact your doctor before you develop symptoms –it could indicate a problem that requires treatment.

So there you have the things you need to know about overhydration, the opposite of dehydration. I know many people didn’t know that there was such a thing as overhydration or water intoxication. And from doing this spot,I notice that runners and endurance athletes need to be especially aware of this condition. I hope you have found this to be educational and enlightening. As I have said numerous times before knowledge is power. Wherever you find it, take it and run with it.

To all my readers, I would from time to time , like to hear your comments both positive or negative on the blogs I publish or any suggestions you have on future blog topics. I want to do anything that will be helpful in navigating the journey we all find ourselves part of. Stay motivated, stay focused, and ABOVE ALL, NEVER EVER QUIT. Till next time, God Bless.