The hypothalamus in the brain is responsible for monitoring water level. If it detects too little or too much water, it responds by telling the pituitary gland to release hormones that communicate with me kidneys and other organs.
Too little water
A shortage of water in the body is called dehydration. The body needs to take in more water and also to conserve the water already inside it.
- Low water alert: The pituitary gland releases a hormone into the bloodstream.
- Feeling thirsty: The hormone triggers an urge to drink.
- Dry mouth: The mouth feels dry, as water is sent to areas that need it more.
- Kidneys: The kidneys receive instructions to remove less water from the blood, so the body produces less urine.
Too much water
Too much water in the body is called overhydration. This condition is rare, but can be caused by illness or by drinking a large amount very quickly. Cells become too waterlogged to work and the blood pressure becomes too high.
- High water alert: The hypothalamus orders blood vessels to widen, which reduces blood pressure.
- Kidneys: The kidneys are ordered to extract more water from the blood, making more urine.
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