What is the medical term for excessive thirst?

The medical term for excessive thirst is polydipsia. This condition is characterized by an abnormal increase in the sensation of thirst, which can lead to increased fluid intake. It is often seen in various medical conditions, such as diabetes mellitus and diabetes insipidus, where the body either cannot properly regulate blood sugar or fails to concentrate urine effectively, respectively. Understanding polydipsia is crucial as it can be an important symptom indicating underlying health issues that may require attention and management.

In contrast, polyuria refers to excessive urination, polyphagia indicates increased hunger or appetite, and pruritus describes an itchiness of the skin. Each of these terms represents a different physiological symptom, highlighting the importance of understanding terminology in the context of pathophysiology.