Thirst, absent

Alternative names:

absence of thirst; adipsia; lack of thirst

Home care:

Follow your health care provider's recommendations. Drink adequate amounts of fluids, even if you do not feel thirsty (6 to 8 glasses per day may be advised).

Call your health care provider if:

• there is any abnormal absence of thirst.

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 the absence of thirst in detail may include:

• time pattern:
  • When was symptom noticed?
  • Did the absence of thirst develop suddenly or slowly?

• quality:
  • Is the thirst decreased or totally absent?
  • Is drinking fluids possible?
  • Did the loss of a thirst sensation follow a known head injury?

• other
  • What other symptoms are also present?
  • Is there abdominal pain?
  • Are there headaches?
  • Is there difficulty swallowing?
  • Is there an aversion to drinking fluids?
  • Is there difficulty breathing?
  • Is there a cough?
  • Are there changes in the appetite?
  • Is there a decrease in the amount of urine produced?
  • Are there changes in skin color?
  • What medications are being taken?

The physical examination may include a detailed nervous system examination if a head injury or problem with the hypothalamus is suspected. Diagnostic tests will vary depending on the history and physical examination findings.

Intervention:
Necessary fluids may be replaced intravenously.

After seeing your health care provider:
You may want to add a diagnosis related to absent thirst to your personal medical record.