Brooke Shields Details Her Seizure After Drinking Too Much Water

Water Toxicity: What You Need to Know About This Potentially Fatal Condition

Brooke Shields has given a health update after announcing in September that she had suffered a seizure. Now, the actress says she experienced the episode after drinking too much water, resulting in water toxicity, a potentially fatal condition. Here's what you need to know about this danger.

Water toxicity, also known as hyponatremia, is a condition that occurs when the levels of sodium in the blood become too low. Sodium is an electrolyte that is essential for many bodily functions, including regulating the balance of fluids in the body. When sodium levels drop too low, the cells in the body begin to swell, which can lead to a range of symptoms including seizures, coma, and even death.

Water toxicity is most commonly caused by drinking too much water too quickly. This can happen during strenuous exercise or when someone is trying to hydrate quickly after sweating heavily. It can also occur in people who have certain medical conditions, such as kidney problems, that make it difficult for their bodies to regulate sodium levels.

Symptoms of water toxicity can vary depending on the severity of the condition. Mild symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, and headache. More severe symptoms include seizures, coma, and even death. If you think you may be experiencing symptoms of water toxicity, it is important to seek medical attention immediately.

Treatment for water toxicity typically involves administering intravenous fluids to help raise sodium levels in the blood. In severe cases, hospitalization may be required.

Preventing water toxicity is simple: drink plenty of fluids, but don't overdo it. When exercising or sweating heavily, it is important to hydrate gradually by drinking small amounts of water throughout the day. If you have any concerns about your sodium levels, talk to your doctor.