The causes of hard water include water passing through the earth through rocks and soil, which contain mineral deposits such as calcium and magnesium. These minerals are dissolved within the water as it flows; thus, water saturated with minerals is said to be hard water. Limestone softening systems evaluate the hardness in grains per gallon (gpg) or milligrams per liter (mg/L).
While hard water is generally safe to drink, it causes several effects on consumers, as discussed below.
It should be noted that hard water is safe for human consumption, and little scientific proof exists showing that hard water causes significant health problems. However, some studies suggest there could be a few possible effects of drinking hard water:
Gastrointestinal Issues
According to some studies, consumption of hard water is known to lead to several problems such as stomach ache, nausea, and diarrhea. This could be because hard water might cause complications in passing through the system and assimilating in the body.
But there isn't sufficient proof of this, and many people consume moderately complex water with ease without suffering from digestive issues. People with gastrointestinal concerns may be more affected by hard water since it can cause more problems for one's stomach.
Kidney Stone Formation
Water with a high content of calcium and magnesium ions is known as hard water since these ions can combine with other compounds such as oxalate and phosphorus, which may lead to crystals and stones in the kidneys. This formation of a kidney stone can be quite painful and may call for medical intervention.
Some research confirms that chronic use of such water leads to stones in the kidneys, though other research disputes this theory. However, water with an intermediate level of hardness does not result in any definite link with the formation of stones.
Atopic Dermatitis-- Commonly Referred to as Eczema-- and Other Skin Conditions
The high mineral content of hard water means that it does not readily produce the bubbles necessary to wash off soap and can thus leave a layer of soap on the skin. Some studies attribute this to the development of skin disorders such as eczema, mostly in children.
The relationships, however, are not well supported, and perhaps further research might be required to determine if hard water alone is capable of causing eczema or if it only aggravates skin conditions. Water softeners should still be used for individuals whose skin is susceptible to water hardness.
Cardiovascular Disease
Very little research shows cause or correlation of cardiovascular disease from consumption of hard water with high iron content. The theory is that minerals deposit in the arteries, thus constricting the blood flow; however, this theory is still inconclusive and lacks solid research support. Further research is required to determine whether hardness in drinking water is a factor that causes cardiovascular disease.
Strategies to Avoid Hard Water Drinking
If you have no choice but to drink hard water, there are a few methods to reduce its possible side effects:
- Perform ion exchange and soften the water hardness by installing a water softener system.
- Install a water filter pitcher or faucet filter to reduce some dissolved minerals in the water supply.
- Consume more bottled soft water than going directly for the hard tap water.
- Boil your hard water because boiling helps reduce some of the hardness in water.
- Caffeine and alcohol should be restricted because they aggravate dehydration, thereby increasing the probability of developing kidney stones.
- To prevent drying out of the skin and formation of eczema-like rashes, apply moisturizers.
You should consult your doctor if you experience:
- Conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome, chronic abdominal pain, and bloating
- Hematuria (blood in urine); it may be due to kidney stones
- Recurrent eczema or skin irritation outbreaks
A doctor can then inform you of suitable tests and treatment courses depending on your health complications. Depending on the test reports about any associated diseases, a doctor may also suggest you install a whole-house water softener if you have been using hard water over time.
Conclusion
Though hard water is not a direct health hazard as it's just water, it may pose some health and skin problems in the long run. Those people who have had gastrointestinal disorders, kidney dysfunction, eczema, or heart complications should be more cautious when they consume hard water. It would be wise to test your water's mineral content and then take appropriate measures to prevent any potential effects. Overall, it is always advisable to use moderation regardless when consuming water that might be hard or laden with minerals.
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