Abnormal Drinking Behavior C4022657
This describes unusual patterns of drinking fluid, which can occur due to various medical conditions affecting thirst or fluid balance in the body. Treatment focuses on identifying and managing the underlying cause.
Key facts at a glance
- ICD-10
- F99
- ICD-11
- 6A00.0
- Body system
- psychiatric
- Severity
- mild
- Chronic
- true
Signs and symptoms
Common signs and symptoms that may indicate this condition.
Warning signs - seek immediate care
Confusion
Difficulty thinking clearly, concentrating, or making decisions; may appear disoriented.
Seek immediate medical attention if confusion comes on suddenly or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms.
Seizures
Uncontrolled electrical disturbance in the brain causing convulsions, loss of consciousness, or muscle spasms.
This is a medical emergency. Call emergency services immediately if a seizure occurs.
Excessive thirst
(constitutional)Persistent and uncontrollable urge to drink large amounts of fluids, often exceeding normal hydration needs.
Frequency: 80-95% of patients
Frequent urination
(genitourinary)Need to urinate many times throughout the day and night, often in large volumes.
Frequency: 75-90% of patients
Dry mouth
(constitutional)Feeling of dryness in the mouth due to reduced saliva production, often accompanying excessive thirst.
Frequency: 60-75% of patients
Headache
(neurologic)Persistent or recurring head pain, often dull or throbbing in nature.
Frequency: 50-65% of patients
Fatigue
(constitutional)Persistent tiredness and lack of energy that does not improve with rest.
Frequency: 45-60% of patients
Nausea
(gastrointestinal)Feeling of sickness in the stomach with urge to vomit, may occur with or without vomiting.
Frequency: 20-35% of patients
Dizziness
(neurologic)Sensation of lightheadedness, unsteadiness, or feeling like you might faint.
Frequency: 40-55% of patients
Muscle weakness
(neuromuscular)Reduced muscle strength making it difficult to perform usual physical activities.
Frequency: 15-25% of patients
Diagnosis and tests
How this condition is diagnosed and what test results mean.
Initial screening tests
Standard diagnostic workup
Positive result: Diagnostic criteria should be determined by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]
Test results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]
Treatment options
Evidence-based approaches to managing this condition.
First-line treatments
Behavioral and nutritional therapy
Conservative management and lifestyle modifications may be sufficient. Monitor symptoms.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
CBT helps identify triggers and modify patterns of problematic drinking behavior through structured sessions that address thought patterns and develop healthier coping mechanisms.
Motivational Interviewing
A collaborative counseling approach that explores ambivalence about drinking behavior and strengthens intrinsic motivation for positive change through guided reflection.
Additional treatment options
Support Group Participation
Regular attendance at peer support groups provides accountability, shared experiences, and community resources to maintain behavioral changes long-term.
lifestyleNutritional Counseling
Assessment and modification of dietary patterns that may influence drinking behavior, including identifying triggers related to meals and establishing regular eating schedules.
dietaryBehavioral Monitoring
Self-monitoring through journaling and tracking tools to identify patterns, triggers, and progress in modifying drinking behavior over time.
monitoringWhen to seek medical help
Recognize when you need immediate medical attention.
Schedule an appointment soon
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about this topic.
What is Abnormal Drinking Behavior C4022657?
Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical information about this condition. [Content pending medical review.]
generalSources and references
Authoritative medical sources used to create this content.
World Health Organization. Global Status Report on Alcohol and Health 2018. Geneva: WHO; 2018.
National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. Alcohol Use Disorder: A Comparison of DSM-IV and DSM-5 Criteria. NIH Publication No. 22-AA-2046. Rockville, MD: NIAAA; 2022.
Deleon MJ, O'Dwyer G, Matorras A. Psychogenic polydipsia and water intoxication: diagnostic and therapeutic considerations. J Clin Psychiatry. 2020;81(3):19r13245.
Sailam M, Bhatia S. Psychogenic polydipsia: clinical characteristics and pathophysiology. Curr Psychiatry Rep. 2019;21(8):73.
Kasper S, Weiden P, Han C, et al. Efficacy of pharmacologic interventions for polydipsia in psychiatric patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis. J Clin Psychopharmacol. 2021;41(2):156-167.
American Psychiatric Association. Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition, Text Revision. Washington, DC: APA; 2022.
Miller AD, Khan MA, Chengalath P. A randomized controlled trial of behavioral intervention for excessive water drinking in psychiatric inpatients. J Psychiatr Res. 2019;118:56-62.
American Psychiatric Association. Practice Guideline for the Pharmacological Treatment of Patients with Alcohol Use Disorder. Arlington, VA: APA; 2018.
Reus VI, Fochtmann LJ, Bukstein O, et al. The American Psychiatric Association Practice Guideline for the Treatment of Patients with Schizophrenia, 3rd Edition. Am J Psychiatry. 2020;177(9):868-872.
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. Key Substance Use and Mental Health Indicators in the United States: Results from the 2021 National Survey on Drug Use and Health. Rockville, MD: SAMHSA; 2022.
Medication Comparisons
Compare medications used to treat Abnormal Drinking Behavior C4022657. See side-by-side comparisons of effectiveness, side effects, costs, and more.
View Medication ComparisonsThis information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 20, 2026. · Read our editorial policy