What are the risks of drinking more water for individuals with abnormal liver function?

Generally, for individuals with abnormal liver function, drinking excessive water may lead to several risks, including increased burden on the kidneys, water intoxication, increased load on the liver, electrolyte imbalance, and induction or worsening of edema. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Increased Burden on the Kidneys

The liver is a vital metabolic organ, while the kidneys are the primary excretory organs. When liver function is impaired, its metabolic capacity declines. If excessive water is consumed at this time, the kidneys must handle an increased excretion load, thereby increasing their burden. This may lead to the kidneys being unable to promptly eliminate excess water and waste from the body, resulting in problems such as edema and hypertension.

2. Water Intoxication

Excessive water intake in individuals with abnormal liver function may lead to excess water accumulation in the body, causing water intoxication. Water intoxication refers to water retention in the body that leads to a decrease in plasma osmotic pressure, potentially causing severe consequences such as cerebral edema and pulmonary edema.

3. Increased Burden on the Liver

Individuals with impaired liver function already have compromised hepatic function; excessive water intake may further increase the burden on the liver. Since the metabolism of water within the body requires the liver's involvement, excessive water intake forces the liver to expend more energy for metabolic processes, thereby worsening the condition.

4. Electrolyte Imbalance

Excessive water intake by individuals with abnormal liver function can also lead to electrolyte imbalance within the body. Excessive water intake dilutes the concentration of electrolytes in the blood, causing levels of elements such as sodium, potassium, and magnesium to drop, which may lead to physical discomfort.

5. Induction or Worsening of Edema

For patients with severe liver disease accompanied by hypoalbuminemia, excessive water intake may induce or exacerbate edema. Hypoalbuminemia leads to reduced plasma osmotic pressure, allowing water to easily seep from blood vessels into tissue spaces, forming edema.

In daily life, individuals should drink water in moderation, controlling their water intake according to their own health condition and medical advice, avoiding excessive hydration. At the same time, avoid unhealthy lifestyle habits such as staying up late and overexertion, and ensure adequate sleep and appropriate exercise, which helps maintain liver health.