Questions: Excessive water intake in a short period of time can lead to what problem? a. Low blood sodium b. Low blood potassium c. Edema d. Rapid weight loss

The answer is the first one (a): Low blood sodium.

Explanation for each option: a. Low blood sodium: Excessive water intake in a short period of time can dilute the sodium in the blood, leading to a condition known as hyponatremia. This is a potentially dangerous condition where the sodium levels in the blood become too low.

b. Low blood potassium: While excessive water intake can affect electrolyte balance, it is more commonly associated with low sodium rather than low potassium levels.

c. Edema: Edema is swelling caused by excess fluid trapped in the body's tissues. While excessive water intake can contribute to fluid retention, it is not the primary concern compared to the risk of hyponatremia.

d. Rapid weight loss: Excessive water intake is more likely to cause temporary weight gain due to increased fluid volume rather than rapid weight loss.

Summary: Excessive water intake in a short period of time can lead to low blood sodium (hyponatremia), making option (a) the correct answer.