If the last few years are anything to go by, the UK could be in for another hot summer. According to the Met Office, we’ve just experienced the hottest June on record, and they’re predicting the hot weather will kick up a gear throughout July, with temperatures expected to be hotter than average. So as the sun blazes during another heatwave, it's natural – and vital – to reach for a refreshing glass or three of water to stay hydrated. But can you drink too much water during a heatwave?

Overhydration and water poisoning

Staying hydrated is crucial for our mental and physical well-being at any time of the year, even more so during extreme weather conditions. So ensuring you drink enough throughout the day is crucial to keep cool and prevent dehydration, which can lead to fatigue, dizziness, exhaustion, and even heatstroke. But as with most things in life, moderation is key.

Though it sounds strange, drinking too much water can be fatal. This is known as overhydration and means you can suffer water poisoning, meaning there’s too much water in your body’s cells, including your brain cells. While dehydration can have serious effects, overhydration can be just as dangerous. So during a heatwave, it's essential to understand the potential risks involved.

What are the symptoms of overhydration?

Overhydration happens when the body's electrolytes, mainly sodium, become unbalanced due to overwhelming water intake, usually more than the daily required amount, within a short timeframe. The similarities between dehydration and overhydration are similar and can lead to many of the same symptoms, including nausea, vomiting, headaches, muscle cramps, confusion, seizures, and in severe cases, even coma or death. 

What can you do to avoid overhydration?

While drinking too much and overhydration is rare, the symptoms highlight the importance of maintaining a balance, even during a heatwave. So how can you get the right balance between drinking enough and drinking too much?

• Listen to your body: Thirst is your body's way of telling you it needs hydration. Drink water regularly throughout the day, and if you feel thirsty, drink normally rather than gulping down huge quantities at once.

• Check your activity level: If you're exercising, doing physical activity, or spending long periods outdoors, you'll need to drink more water. Be aware of what your body needs, but avoid overconsumption.

• Choose electrolyte-rich drinks: While water is the best way to stay hydrated, replenishing your electrolytes is crucial. You’ll lose water and essential minerals, including sodium and potassium, when you sweat, even if you’re not exercising, so an occasional electrolyte-rich sports drink is a great boost.

Summer hydration from Thirsty Work

So can you drink too much water in a heatwave? In theory, yes, but while suffering from overhydration is rare, hydration is still crucial. Even if you’re staying indoors more during a heatwave or if you’re at work, stay hydrated by drinking regularly throughout the day. And the best way to enjoy pure, great-tasting water is to drink from a Thirsty Work bottled water cooler.

With naturally filtered water from our underground source in Shropshire, you have a convenient source of pure chilled, ambient, or sparkling drinking water every day. And it includes all the essential vitamins and minerals your body needs. 

To find out more about our bottled water coolers and our mains-fed water coolers, call the team today on 01392 877 172. Alternatively, email hello@thirstywork.com or message us, and we’ll get you started on your 10-day free trial so you stay hydrated this summer.