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Quench the thirst: lessons from clinical thirst trials
Shoshana R Arai1, Alice Butzlaff2, Nancy A Stotts2
1Department of Physiological Nursing, San Francisco School of Nursing, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA shoshana.arai@nursing.ucsf.edu.
Biological Research for Nursing
|October 19, 2013
Summary
This study confirms a strong link between thirst and plasma osmolality (pOsm), but notes diminished thirst perception in older adults. This highlights dehydration risks in the elderly due to physiological changes.
Area of Science:
- Physiology
- Gerontology
- Clinical Medicine
Background:
- Thirst is a common patient complaint, yet its physiological underpinnings are not fully understood.
- Understanding thirst regulation is crucial for managing hydration and preventing dehydration.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the relationship between thirst ratings and key physiological factors.
- To investigate the correlation between thirst, plasma osmolality (pOsm), and arginine vasopressin (AVP).
Main Methods:
- A literature search identified 17 clinical studies in human subjects.
- Thirst was induced via hyperosmolar infusion, water deprivation, or exercise.
- Relationships between thirst ratings and physiological correlates (pOsm, AVP) were analyzed.
Main Results:
- Positive linear relationships were found between thirst ratings and rising serum pOsm levels.
- Significant variations in arginine vasopressin (AVP) levels were observed in response to stimuli.
- Older adults reported diminished thirst ratings compared to younger subjects.
- Angiotensin II and atrial natriuretic hormone showed inconsistent roles in thirst mediation.
Conclusions:
- Plasma osmolality is a strong correlate of thirst perception in most adults.
- Older adults exhibit altered thirst responses, increasing their dehydration risk.
- Sensory deficits and impaired volume correction contribute to dehydration risk in the elderly.
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