Thirst - absent - Overview

Alternative Names

Adipsia; Lack of thirst; Absence of thirst

Definition of Thirst - absent:

Absence of thirst is a lack of the urge to drink fluids, even when the body is low on water or has an excess amount of salt.

Considerations:

Not being thirsty at various times during the day is normal, if the body does not need fluid replacement. However, a quick change in the need for fluids should prompt a visit to your doctor.

Common Causes:

As people age, they are less likely to notice their thirst and may not drink fluids when needed.

Causes of abscence of thirst may be due to:

Birth defects of the brain
Bronchial tumor that causes SIADH
Hydrocephalus
Injury or tumor of part of the brain called the hypothalamus
Stroke

Reviewed last on: 1/31/2011
Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Medical Director, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington, School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

References

Robinson AG, Verbalis JG. Posterior pituitary. In: Kronenberg HM, Shlomo M, Polonsky KS, Larsen PR, eds. Williams Textbook of Endocrinology. 11th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier;2008:chap 9.

Gibbs MA, Tayal VS. Electrolyte disturbances. In: Marx JA, Hockberger RS, Walls RM, et al, eds. Rosen’s Emergency Medicine: Concepts and Clinical Practice. 7th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Mosby Elsevier; 2009:chap 123.

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