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Thirst - absent

• Overview
• Treatment

Alternative Names:

Adipsia; Lack of thirst; Absence of thirst

Home Care:

Follow your health care provider's recommendations. Drink enough fluids, even if you do not feel thirsty (6 - 8 glasses each day may be advised).

Call your health care provider if:

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you notice any abnormal lack of thirst.

What to expect at your health care provider's office:

The health care provider will obtain your medical history and will perform a physical examination.

Medical history questions may include the following:

• When did you first notice this problem?
• Did the absence of thirst develop suddenly or slowly?
• Is the thirst decreased or totally absent?
• Is drinking fluids possible?
• Did the loss of thirst follow a head injury?
• What other symptoms do you have?
• Do you have abdominal pain?
• Do you have headaches?
• Do you have difficulty swallowing ?
• Do you suddenly dislike drinking fluids?
• Do you have difficulty breathing ?
• Do you have a cough?
• Do you have any changes in appetite?
• Do you urinate less than usual?
• Do you have any changes in skin color?
• What medications are you taking?

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.

Necessary fluids may be given through a vein (IV).

• Review Date: 1/18/2007
• Reviewed By: Benjamin W. Van Voorhees, MD, MPH, Assistant Professor of Medicine and Pediatrics, The University of Chicago, Chicago, IL. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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