Special Population: Persons with Medical Illnesses

Polydipsia, otherwise known as water intoxication, can cause a myriad of symptoms that may appear to be symptoms of mental illness.  People who engage in Polydipsia drink enormous quantities of water every day and essentially dilute the chemicals that carry the nerve impulses to their bodies. Symptoms resulting from Polydipsia include agitation, delusions and hallucinations.  Seizure, coma and death can occur in severe cases.