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Experts have explained the dangers of drinking too much water following a woman's recent death from water intoxication.
Mum-of-two Ashley Summers, from Indiana, died from water intoxication on 6 July.
The daycare worker had visited Lake Freeman, a popular summer destination around 80 miles north of Indianapolis, with her family.
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They were on planned vacation between Saturday, 1 July and Tuesday, 4 July.
On the Tuesday morning, Summers began feeling dehydrated and could not drink enough water to treat her symptoms, her family said.
She ended up drinking the equivalent of four 16oz (500ml) bottles in 20 minutes.
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After she returned home, she collapsed in her garage and never regained consciousness.
Summers developed severe brain swelling and her cells filled with water and became swollen, while the cells in her brain stopped blood flow.
Doctors at the University Health Arnett Hospital diagnosed her with water toxicity, which develops when there is too much water in the body and not enough sodium.
Alex Ebner, Owner of ACE Medical Company, has since explained how there is such a thing as drinking too much water.
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"Hyponatremia (water intoxication) is a condition when someone drinks so much water they dilute the electrolytes (minerals and salts that regulate several bodily functions) in their bloodstream," Ebner told the Mirror.
"In doing this a person will become more tired, experience nausea, and/or suffer confusion."
He also stated the benefits of drinking 'enough' water to stay hydrated, adding: "By staying hydrated, a person can enjoy several important benefits in quality of life: more efficient brain function, higher energy, a healthier cardiovascular system, and fewer aches and pains."
Dr Elena Salagean also explained: "The amount of water considered 'too much' will vary depending on your body size, weight, and general health condition. There isn't a generic cut-off for too much water as the amount will vary from person to person.
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"Athletes in particular, or those living in hot climates, may need more water than others. As a general indication, it's best to drink according to your thirst levels and not to overdo it."
While Dr Naheed Ali shared: "While the mantra 'stay hydrated' is well-known, understanding how much water might be too much is equally vital.
"Hydration is crucial to our well-being, but balance is key.
"Even something as beneficial as water can become detrimental if consumed in excess.
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"Water intoxication is a rare but real and potentially dangerous condition.
"It's particularly prevalent among individuals who engage in intense physical activities, such as athletes or those in rigorous training.
"In these instances, someone might consume large amounts of water after demanding exercise, thinking it would aid in recovery."
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