Can You Die If You Drink Too Much Water?

Drinking too much water can cause the body's levels of electrolytes and sodium to become low. If electrolyte and sodium levels fall below the normal range, hyponatremia may develop. This condition can result in disorientation, nausea, seizures and eventually death.

Types

• Three types of hyponatremia are possible, according to the Mayo Clinic. They are hypervolemic, euvolemic and hypovolemic hyponatremia.

Hypervolemic Hyponatremia

• Hypervolemic hyponatremia occurs when blood sodium levels drop too low. This happens when excess water dilutes the sodium level. People who experience this type of hyponatremia usually have major organ failure, such as kidney, liver or heart failure. Unless sodium levels return to normal, the individual may go into a coma or die.

Euvolemic Hyponatremia

• The Mayo Clinic states that euvolemic hyponatremia occurs when water levels remain normal, but low sodium levels exist. This type most often happens in individuals with cancer or chronic diseases or in those who take certain drugs. It can cause death if left untreated.

Hypovolemic Hyponatremia

• Hypovolemic hyponatremia occurs when both water and sodium levels are low, according to the Mayo Clinic. This type develops in otherwise healthy people, usually when exercising without consuming adequate electrolytes to replace those lost in sweat. Vigorous exercise while only drinking water can cause low electrolyte levels. Left untreated, this type can also cause death.