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Thirst - absent - Treatment

Alternative Names

Adipsia; Lack of thirst; Absence of thirst

Home Care:

Follow your health care provider's recommendations.

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 take a medical history and 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?
  • Can you drink fluids?
  • 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 the health care provider suspects a head injury or problem with the hypothalamus. Diagnostic tests will vary depending on the history and physical examination findings.

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

  • 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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