Drinking a lot of fluid may not indicate a medical problem, but if you feel you constantly need to drink fluids, this could indicate a health condition. In relation to blood sugar, excessive thirst may indicate high blood sugar levels. If you suspect you have a low or elevated blood sugar, contact your doctor for an examination immediately. You may need to begin medications or make lifestyle changes that will help you control blood sugar levels and prevent complications.
Low Blood Sugar
Drinking a lot of fluids does not indicate low blood sugar, also known as hypoglycemia. If you do have low levels you may experience changes in vision, heart palpitations, sweating, tremors, confusion and hunger. Extremely low blood sugar may cause seizures or loss of consciousness. These symptoms could indicate other health conditions as well. Contact your doctor if you experience any sign of low blood sugar, and she will test your blood to determine the cause and any necessary treatment.
High Blood Sugar
Excessive thirst may indicate high blood sugar, and you may experience frequent urination as well. You may have vision changes, headaches, upset stomach, weakness and difficulty breathing. Extremely high blood sugar levels may lead to confusion and coma. Inform your doctor if you have these or other symptoms, and she will order tests to determine your blood sugar levels. If you have high fasting blood sugar levels, your doctor may diagnose you with diabetes.
Other Causes
In addition to high blood sugar, other conditions may cause you to experience excessive thirst. If you have a diet high in salt you may experience thirst. Certain medications such as diuretics may also cause you to drink a lot of fluids. Bouts of diarrhea, vomiting or sweating may also contribute to thirst. In some cases, medical conditions such as infections, kidney failure or liver failure may create excessive thirst.
Considerations
Your body needs fluids to stay hydrated and healthy, but if you feel you have increased your fluid intake and remain thirsty or have concerns that you may have a health condition prompting your excessive thirst, talk with your doctor. She can discuss all of your symptoms, perform testing and determine the cause.
