Psychogenic Polydipsia Complicated to Hyponatremia Induced Seizure in Schizophrenia: A Case Report from Nepal

Abstract

Psychogenic polydipsia is one of the common cooccurrences with Schizophrenia and if not addressed can lead to fatal consequences. There are some evidences for pharmacological management of this condition but nonpharmacological management starting from psycho-education to behavioural modification therapy involving family members can be a very effective strategy. We report a case from Nepal where psychogenic polydipsia was complicated to hyponatremia and lead to seizure episodes. We emphasize on asking a routine question about polydipsia in every patient of Schizophrenia in clinics.

The Catastrophic Effects of Psychogenic Polydipsia: A Case Report

“…However, prompt recognition is crucial to avoid potentially life-threatening complications [ 7 ]. Similar cases, as observed in other reports, have depicted events resembling the case under discussion, including seizures and aspiration pneumonia [ 8 , 9 ]. Studies have also documented outcomes such as crural compartment syndrome, rhabdomyolysis, and even death [ 10 - 12 ].…”

Hyponatremia-Induced Seizure in a Patient With Psychogenic Polydipsia: A Case Report

“…Psychogenic polydipsia can potentially be fatal. There are multiple reports of life-threatening consequences, such as seizures, rhabdomyolysis, cerebral edema, aspiration pneumonia, and crural compartment syndrome as a result of water intoxication [ 4 ]. Water intoxication is thought to be explained by three factors: polydipsia, which is defined as the water consumption of more than three liters per day and up to 10 or 15 liters in extreme cases, inability to excrete water due to kidney disturbance or inappropriate secretion of antidiuretic hormone, and sensitivity of the brain to hyponatremia [ 5 ].…”