Potomania: Understanding Compulsive Water Drinking and Water Intoxication

What Is Potomania?

Potomania is a rare psychiatric disorder characterized by an excessive, compulsive drive to consume water, leading to water intoxication (hyponatremia). It is distinct from polydipsia (excessive thirst due to medical conditions like diabetes) and dipsomania (compulsive alcohol consumption).

Associated Conditions

Potomania is frequently linked to schizophrenia, depression, anxiety, and other psychotic or mood disorders.

Clinical Consequences

Excessive water intake dilutes serum sodium, causing hyponatremia. Symptoms range from nausea, headache, and confusion to seizures, coma, and death in severe cases.

Management

• Treat the underlying psychiatric condition (antipsychotics, mood stabilizers, psychotherapy).
• Fluid restriction under medical supervision.
• Monitoring of serum electrolytes.
• Behavioral interventions to reduce compulsive drinking.

Key Distinction

Unlike primary polydipsia driven by physiological thirst, potomania is a psychogenic behavior requiring psychiatric intervention.