Excessive Thirst (Polydipsia)

The term polydipsia (synonyms: morbid thirst; increased thirst; excessive thirst; ICD-10 R63.1: excessive thirst) refers to a pathologically (pathologically) increased feeling of thirst that is associated with excessive fluid intake through drinking.

Primary polydipsia refers to increased fluid consumption without underlying disease.

Secondary polydipsia is a pathologically (pathologically) increased thirst as a symptom of a disease, often diabetes mellitus.

Polydipsia is usually accompanied by polyuria (increased urination) due to increased fluid intake.

Polydipsia can be a symptom of many diseases (see under “Differential diagnoses”).

Course and prognosis: Normally, the maximum daily fluid intake of an adult is about 3.5 liters. If more is drunk, a physician should be consulted for clarification. Course and prognosis depend on the underlying disease.