Excessive Hydration: 10 symptoms your body is saying enough
Frequent urinationNeeding to urinate constantly, especially at night, can indicate overhydration. The kidneys are working overtime to remove excess water, which disrupts sleep and daily activities.
Clear or colourless urineWhile light yellow urine is healthy, completely clear urine often means you’re drinking too much water. It may signal diluted electrolytes and an imbalance in your hydration levels.
Swollen hands, feet or lipsToo much water can cause cells to swell, leading to puffiness in your extremities. This may feel like bloating and can be mistaken for weight gain.
Headaches without other causesDiluted sodium levels due to excess water can cause brain cells to swell, resulting in headaches. If unrelated to dehydration or tension, overhydration might be the reason.
Nausea and vomitingWhen the body can’t handle excess fluid, it reacts with nausea or vomiting. This is the body’s way of rejecting the overload and restoring balance.
Muscle weakness or crampsOverhydration can lower electrolyte levels, especially sodium and potassium. This imbalance may lead to muscle weakness, twitching or cramping even when you’re otherwise healthy.
Fatigue or lethargyInstead of feeling energised, overhydrated people often feel tired or sluggish. The body is strained by the constant need to regulate water and electrolyte balance.
Confusion or disorientationIn severe cases, low sodium from overhydration (hyponatremia) affects brain function. It can cause mental fog, confusion, difficulty concentrating or even drowsiness and fainting.
Persistent thirstIronically, drinking too much water can make you feel more thirsty. This is due to disrupted hormone signals and diluted electrolytes that confuse your body’s hydration cues.
Weight fluctuation in a short timeSudden weight gain without dietary change can be due to water retention. If your weight changes drastically within a day or two, you may be overhydrated.
10 clear clues you’re not drinking enough water daily