Some people with schizophrenia have periods of time when they drink too much water. This is called polydipsia. It is not known why this occurs. Drinking too much water affects the natural balance of water and chemicals, including salts, in the body. Drinking too much water can lead to swelling, breathing problems, and even death.
Credits
| Author | Jeannette Curtis |
| Editor | Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA |
| Associate Editor | Tracy Landauer |
| Associate Editor | Pat Truman |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine |
| Specialist Medical Reviewer | Lisa S. Weinstock, MD - Psychiatry |
| Last Updated | February 5, 2008 |
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