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Thirst - absent
Adipsia; Lack of thirst; Absence of thirst
Absence of thirst is a lack of the urge to drink fluids, even when the body is low on water or has too much salt.
Considerations
Not being thirsty at times during the day is normal, if the body does not need more fluid. But if you have a sudden change in the need for fluids, you should see your health care provider right away.
Causes
As people age, they are less likely to notice their thirst. Therefore, they may not drink fluids when needed.
Absence of thirst may be due to:
- Birth defects of the brain
-
Bronchial tumor that causes syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion (
SIADH
)
SIADH
Low sodium level is a condition in which the amount of sodium (salt) in the blood is lower than normal. The medical name of this condition is hypona...
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-
Injury or
tumor
of part of the brain called the hypothalamus
Tumor
A tumor is an abnormal growth of body tissue. Tumors can be cancerous (malignant) or noncancerous (benign).
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Stroke
Stroke
A stroke occurs when blood flow to a part of the brain stops. A stroke is sometimes called a "brain attack. " If blood flow is cut off for longer th...
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Home Care
Follow your provider's recommendations.
When to Contact a Medical Professional
Call your health care provider if you notice any abnormal lack of thirst.
What to Expect at Your Office Visit
The health care provider will take a medical history and perform a physical exam.
You may be asked questions such as:
- When did you first notice this problem? Did it develop suddenly or slowly?
- Is the thirst decreased or totally absent?
- Are you able to drink fluids? Do you suddenly dislike drinking fluids?
- Did the loss of thirst follow a head injury?
- Do you have other symptoms such as abdominal pain, headaches, or swallowing problems?
-
Do you have a cough or
difficulty breathing
?
Difficulty breathing
Breathing difficulty may involve:Difficult breathingUncomfortable breathingFeeling like you are not getting enough air
Read Article Now Book Mark Article - Do you have any changes in appetite?
- Do you urinate less than usual?
- Do you have any changes in skin color?
- What medicines are you taking?
The provider will do a detailed nervous system exam if a head injury or problem with the hypothalamus is suspected. Tests may be needed depending on the results of your exam.
Your re provider will recommend treatment if needed.
If you are dehydrated, fluids will likely be given through a vein (IV).
References
Skorecki K, Ausiello D. Disorders of sodium and water homeostasis. In: Goldman L, Schafer AI, eds. Goldman's Cecil Medicine . 24th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier Saunders; 2011:chap 118.
Review Date: 1/31/2015
Reviewed By: Linda J. Vorvick, MD, medical director and director of didactic curriculum, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, Department of Family Medicine, UW Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Isla Ogilvie, PhD, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.
