Thirst, excessive
Alternative names:
excessive thirst; increased thirst; polydipsia
Home care:
Because thirst is usually the body's way of replacing water loss, it is usually advisable to drink plenty of liquids.
For compulsive thirst, get psychological help.
For diabetes mellitus, follow prescribed therapy to properly control blood sugar levels.
Call your health care provider if:
- excessive thirst is persistent and unexplained, or accompanied by other unexplained symptoms.
- you are passing more than 5 quarts of urine a day.
What to expect at your health care provider's office:
The medical history will be obtained and a physical examination performed.
Medical history questions documenting excessive thirst in detail may include: - time pattern
- How long has the increased thirst been noticed?
- Is the excessive thirst consistent during the day?
- Is it worse during the day?
- Did it develop suddenly or slowly?
- eating habits
- Has intake of salty or spicy foods increased?
- How much salt is eaten each day?
- Have you changed your diet?
- exercise
- Has activity level recently increased?
- other
A general physical examination will be performed, and a psychological evaluation may be recommended if compulsive thirst (of psychologic origin) is suspected. Fluid intake and output will be closely monitored.
Diagnostic tests that may be performed are: After seeing your health care provider:
You may want to add a diagnosis related to excessive thirst to your personal medical record.
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