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Alternative names
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Definition
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Considerations
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Common Causes
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Home Care
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Call your health care provider if
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What to expect at your health care provider's office
Alternative names
Adipsia; Lack of thirst; Absence of thirst
Definition
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Absence of thirst is a lack of the urge to consume fluids.
Considerations
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The absence of thirst at various times during the day is normal, if the body is not requiring fluid replacement. However, a rapid change in the need for fluids should prompt a visit to your physician.
Common Causes
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Hypothalamic injury or tumor
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Head injury
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Stroke
- Bronchial tumor (SIADH)
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Cirrhosis
Home Care
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Follow your health care provider's recommendations. Drink adequate amounts of fluids, even if you do not feel thirsty (6 - 8 glasses per day may be advised).
Call your health care provider if
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Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you notice any abnormal absence of thirst.
What to expect at your health care provider's office
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The health care provider will obtain your medical history and will perform a physical examination.
Medical history questions may include the following:
- When was the symptom first noticed?
- Did the absence of thirst develop suddenly or slowly?
- Is the thirst decreased or totally absent?
- Is drinking fluids possible?
- Did the loss of a thirst sensation follow a known head injury?
- What other symptoms are also present?
- Is there abdominal pain?
- Are there headaches?
- Is there difficulty swallowing?
- Is there an aversion to drinking fluids?
- Is there difficulty breathing?
- Is there a cough?
- Are there changes in the appetite?
- Is there a decrease in the amount of urine produced?
- Are there changes in skin color?
- What medications are being taken?
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 replaced intravenously.
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