Thirst - Absent

What to Expect at your Health Care Provider's Office

The health care provider will obtain your medical history and will perform a physical examination.

Medical history questions may include the following:

• Time pattern:
  • When was the symptom first noticed?
  • Did the absence of thirst develop suddenly or slowly?
• Quality:
  • Is the thirst decreased or totally absent?
  • Is drinking fluids possible?
  • Did the loss of a thirst sensation follow a known head injury?
• Other
  • 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.