Understanding Overhydration: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Overhydration: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Suarajatim.com - Water is essential for human survival. Our body needs it to function properly, and it's recommended that we drink enough water daily to stay hydrated. However, overhydration, or the condition of having too much water in the body, can be just as dangerous as dehydration. We spoke with Dr. Ermita I. Ilyas MS, AIFO, an expert in sports physiology, to learn more about overhydration.

What is AIFO?
AIFO stands for "Ahli Ilmu Faal Olah raga," which translates to "Expert in Sports Physiology."

What is overhydration?
Overhydration is a condition in which a person has an excess of water in their body.

Is it the opposite of dehydration?
Yes, that's correct.

Do men and women have the same ideal composition of water in their bodies?
No, men have a higher percentage of water in their bodies than women. Men have between 60-70% water, while women have between 40-50%.

Why do women have less water in their bodies than men?
Women have less water because they have more fatty tissue, which contains less water. Men have more muscle mass, which contains more water, so they require more water than women. Therefore, women are more vulnerable than men.

Are there any specific cases of overhydration?
Overhydration cases are frequently found in the United States, and every year there are cases of overhydration. This can be dangerous and can lead to death.

Is overhydration also found in Indonesia?
Indonesia has always been reminded to be careful of dehydration due to the hot and humid weather, where sweat cannot be released properly. Overhydration is commonly found in certain sports such as marathons or soccer. Therefore, athletes are more susceptible to overhydration.

Can people who don't exercise get overhydration?
It is possible, especially if someone drinks too much water due to certain conditions. For example, in the US, there are contests where people drink as much water as possible. There are also cases where children are punished by being forced to drink excessive amounts of water, causing death. There are also cases where people have health problems, such as an excess of certain hormones or kidney disease, and they drink too much water.

Are the signs of overhydration and dehydration the same? If they are different, can we recognize the differences?
Dehydration and overhydration are sometimes difficult to distinguish. However, the signs of overhydration are nausea, vomiting, feeling full and bloated due to drinking too much water. The signs of dehydration are feeling weak, feeling thirsty, and dry mouth. One clear sign of overhydration is when the hands and feet appear swollen due to the accumulation of water in the body, which is not seen in dehydration. In addition, if a person wears a ring and cannot remove it due to swelling, it could be a sign of overhydration.

Is the diagnosis process for overhydration accurate or can it be wrong?
In daily practice, healthcare professionals or doctors can sometimes make mistakes in their initial diagnosis. Usually, when a person is brought to the hospital, they are given an infusion. However, in the US, some patients were given an infusion and subsequently fell into a coma, leading to death. Experts have warned medical professionals to pay attention to the symptoms experienced by the patient and not to assume a collapse.

In conclusion, overhydration can be just as dangerous as dehydration. Although it is a less common condition, it can cause severe health problems and even death. It is important to understand the symptoms and causes of overhydration and to seek medical help immediately if you suspect you or someone you know is experiencing.
Dr. Ermita I. Ilyas MS, AIFO
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