Polydipsia

Polydipsia denotes a state with abnormal thirst in combination with a large intake of drinks. By psychogenic (primary) polydipsia is fluid intake voluntary and occurs often in combination with a severe mental illness or developmental disorder. In severe cases, the patient may get hyponatremia.

Important differential diagnoses: Diabetes insipidus is caused by defective secretion or action of antidiuretic hormone (ADH) and the use of diuretics.