6 medical reasons you may have excessive thirst

Are you experiencing extreme thirst? If so, it could be one of the following reasons. Here's some common symptoms, and how to respond if you're experiencing excessive thirst.

• Symptoms: Thirst accompanied by chest pain, increased or decreased urination, appetite loss, nausea, vomiting, swelling or numbness in the hands or feet, muscle cramps, trouble concentrating, shortness of breath or dizziness.
• Response: Call your doctor immediately. A variety of diagnostic tests can determine the existence and extent of these conditions.

• Symptoms: Thirst, possibly accompanied by insomnia, unexplained weight loss, increased sweating, more frequent bowel movements or hair loss.
• Response: See your doctor, who will order a diagnostic blood test. If your thyroid is overactive, prescription medication can slow it down.

• Symptoms: Thirst can be a side effect of diuretics, antihistamines, some antidepressants, cancer drugs, steroids and heart disease medications.
• Response: Talk with your doctor about whether to continue the medication, but don't stop it without a medical okay.
• Check the package inserts or call your pharmacist for advice on whether/how much to increase your fluid intake.

• Symptoms: Thirst possibly accompanied by increased urination, unexplained weight loss, increased hunger or blurred vision.
• Response: See your doctor, who will order a test to measure your blood sugar levels.

• Symptoms: A rare mental disorder, psychogenic polydipsia causes a strong desire to drink with no other physical symptoms.
• Response: See your doctor, who may refer you to a mental health professional.

• Central diabetes insipidus is a rare disorder caused by a deficiency of certain kidney proteins necessary to manage fluid balance.
• Symptoms include thirst accompanied by excessive urination.
• Response: See your doctor, who will order diagnostic blood tests.

Excessive thirst can be indicative of many medical issues, from diabetes to organ failure. No matter the cause, if you experience excessive thirst, be sure to consult a physician as soon as possible.