Excessive Thirst: Why Does It Happen?
Excessive thirst is an indicator that something is not working well in the body. Either due to a loss of fluid balance, or an underlying pathology, the fact that this mechanism becomes exaggerated can be synonymous with concern.
As a general rule, the human body is efficient in controlling the thirst mechanism to incite fluid intake. If it were not, multiple problems would ensue.
With the balance of water through the desire to drink it, losses that take place through sweat or urine are compensated. However, on some occasions this physiological mechanism fails or increases excessively. We explain, then, why excessive thirst can occur and what consequences it has.
Excessive thirst due to increased sugar
The level of sugar in the blood can influence the mechanism that regulates thirst directly. If blood glucose rises above the values ​​considered normal, due to a metabolic failure for example, excessive thirst is likely to occur that leads the individual to drink water without finding satiety.
Poorly controlled diabetes is, therefore, a pathology that triggers this process. In fact, among the three indicative symptoms to suspect chronic hyperglycemia we have polydipsia (excess thirst), polyuria (excess urination) and polyphagia (excess hunger).
Some studies published in the current scientific literature explain in detail the physiological processes by which this metabolic pathology is capable of generating polydipsia. In the case of frequent occurrence of this condition, consultation with the specialist to assess the vitality of the pancreas and the existence of any disease related to the metabolism of nutrients is essential.
Polydipsia caused by excess salt
It is also possible that excessive thirst occurs from an excess intake of some component of the diet. In particular, it is common for this situation to occur when foods that are too salty are incorporated.
Sodium is one of the minerals that most decisively intervenes in the hydric and electrolyte balance. A variation in its levels, although minimal, can promote the mechanisms that cause thirst.
Even an excessive intake of sodium is capable of interfering with cardiovascular health, increasing the risk of hypertension. This association is clearly reflected in research published in the journal Advances in Experimental Medicine and Biology.
Excessive thirst as part of a psychiatric disorder
In addition to the causes already discussed, excessive thirst can be the result of a psychiatric disorder. When there is an alteration in the cerebral hippocampus, especially, one of the symptoms is polydipsia.
Schizophrenia or anxiety could be promoters of this condition, as stated in a recent review of scientific articles published in the journal Swiss Medical Weekly. The intrinsic background relationship is not known with complete certainty, but changes in neurotransmitters are suspected.
A poorly controlled schizophrenia situation can put the lives of those who suffer it and those around them at risk. Thus, it is crucial to establish a pharmacological regimen to manage the disease safely.
Excessive thirst from strenuous exercise
The last of the reasons that we will comment, and that is related to the appearance of excessive thirst, is the practice of intense exercise in conditions of high temperature and humidity. Physical activity in these types of situations leads to greater loss of water through sweat and perspiration.
A water imbalance is generated that has to be compensated to ensure the functioning of physiological reactions and the maintenance of body temperature. To do this, brain sensors warn the person to incorporate liquids.
One of the ways that the human body has to signal the state of dehydration is through the mechanism of thirst. Under these conditions it can manifest itself excessively, since fluid losses can amount to more than 2% of the total body volume.
In this way, drinking water frequently during sports practice significantly reduces the risk of this sensation appearing, as well as developing acute complications that put performance at risk.
Polydipsia: a disorder caused by various factors
There are several causes that can generate a sensation of excessive thirst. Some of them have a certain severity, but others are solved by drinking plenty of fluids, or taking certain precautions into account beforehand.
In the event that this disorder appears in your life frequently and without a logical explanation, do not hesitate to visit a doctor. He will be able to establish an accurate diagnosis and to prescribe the pertinent medication in case it is necessary.
Also, if you do sports in hot environments, plan the correct hydration guidelines to prevent the appearance of excessive thirst. Not only does your performance depend on it, but the complete electrolyte metabolism of the blood.
