There is a lot of conflicting information about how much water we should drink. One of my doctors said that we should try to limit our water intake to half our body weight. I stop at 72 ounces a day. Please mention the swelling to your doctor.
May 12 (edited)
The severity of the kidney disease plays a large role in how much fluid and electrolyte/mineral intake we can tolerate, so please talk to your doctor. A nutritionist specializing in nephrology can also be helpful for lupus nephritis patients.
May 13
With lupus nephritis, drinking too much water can actually be dangerous. When the kidneys aren't functioning properly, excess fluid can build up in the body instead of being filtered out — and this can lead to swelling, bloating, and in serious cases, fluid overload.
So yes, drinking too much water could contribute to Show Full Answer
With lupus nephritis, drinking too much water can actually be dangerous. When the kidneys aren't functioning properly, excess fluid can build up in the body instead of being filtered out — and this can lead to swelling, bloating, and in serious cases, fluid overload.
So yes, drinking too much water could contribute to swelling or a bloated feeling if the kidneys are already struggling. This doesn't mean avoiding water entirely — staying hydrated is still important. The key is balance. Here's what's worth keeping in mind:
- Too little water can cause dehydration, which brings its own problems
- Too much water can worsen fluid buildup if kidneys aren't working well
- Salt intake can also make fluid retention worse, so a low-sodium diet may help
- Electrolyte balance matters too, not just water intake
The safest step is to ask a rheumatologist or nephrologist how much fluid is right for your specific situation. They can tailor guidance based on current kidney function, medications, and overall health. This really is one of those "it depends on you" situations — and getting it right can make a real difference in how you feel day to day.
May 12
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