Water Intoxication in Infants: A Hidden Danger Every Parent Should Know

From the moment your baby is born, your instincts revolve around protection, keeping them warm, fed, and healthy. Naturally, water feels like one of the purest, safest things you could offer. After all, we’re often told to drink more water for health, so why wouldn’t that apply to your baby?

But here’s what most parents don’t know: too much water, too soon, can be dangerous for infants. It’s a condition called water intoxication, and while uncommon, it can quickly become a medical emergency.

Water intoxication, or dilutional hyponatremia, occurs when a baby drinks too much water, diluting the sodium levels in their blood. Sodium is essential for maintaining fluid balance in the body. When the balance shifts, it causes the body’s cells, including brain cells, to swell. This swelling can lead to seizures, brain damage, or even death if not treated urgently.

Infants under 6 months are especially vulnerable because:

Parents may accidentally add too much water when mixing formula, trying to stretch a can of powder, or out of a misunderstanding. This is one of the most common causes of water intoxication in babies.

Real Case Insight:

In a Pediatrics journal article (PMID: 8470563), researchers reported a case of a 4-month-old infant who developed seizures after being fed over-diluted formula during financial hardship. The child recovered after hospitalization and correction of sodium levels, but the case highlighted how easily the danger can be missed.

Some caregivers, especially in hot climates, may give plain water to babies to “cool them down” or “quench thirst.” While well-meaning, it’s unnecessary and risky before six months.

Dr. Manisha Desai, pediatrician from Gujarat, shares:

“We see cases where families think they’re doing good by offering boiled water to newborns in summer. One child came in with drowsiness and twitching, classic signs of water intoxication. Thankfully, the parents acted quickly.”

Herbal water, gripe water, or other liquid-based traditional remedies can also contribute, especially when given frequently or in large quantities.

Though rare, water intoxication can also happen if a baby swallows large amounts of water during swimming or bath time, especially during submersion.

For infants under 6 months:

Recognizing the signs early is crucial. Symptoms may appear gradually or suddenly.

If your baby shows any of these signs and you suspect excess water intake, seek emergency medical care immediately.

Let’s break it down simply:

It’s not the water itself that is toxic; it’s the imbalance it causes in the baby’s delicate system.

Myth 1: Babies need water in hot weather to stay hydrated.

Fact: Breast milk (88% water) and formula provide all the hydration your baby needs—even in very hot climates. Feed more frequently if needed.

Myth 2: A little extra water in the formula won’t hurt.

Fact: Even small errors in dilution can harm a baby. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions exactly.

Myth 3: Gripe water is natural and safe.

Fact: Gripe water may contain water, sugar, or even alcohol. It’s not regulated in many countries and can disrupt feeding and electrolyte balance.

Emergency Tip:

Call your pediatrician on the way or clearly explain your water intake history to the emergency staff. It will help them act faster.

Your baby’s body is marvelously designed. In the first six months, everything they need, nutrition, hydration, and immunity, comes from breast milk or formula. Adding water, though well-intended, can tip the balance in dangerous ways.

Water intoxication may be rare, but awareness is powerful. With just a bit of knowledge, you can avoid this hidden danger and focus on what matters most: feeding, bonding, and watching your baby grow strong and safe.