Hyponatremia Secondary to Psychogenic Polydipsia and Schizophrenia: A Case Report

Psychogenic polydipsia is characterized by excess thirst, followed by the overconsumption of liquids. This condition is seen in an array of mental illnesses, especially schizophrenia. Psychogenic polydipsia can lead to hyponatremia, which can lead to neurologic sequelae, such as seizures, cerebral edema, and death. In the case under study, the patient presents with schizophrenia, fatigue, weakness, and dizziness during psychiatric follow-up. A comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP) was ordered, which indicated hyponatremia. This patient was treated with salt tablets and behavioral therapy, which led to the normalization of his serum sodium and symptom improvement. The patient has a history of psychogenic polydipsia with hyponatremia, treated on and off for years with salt replacement and water restriction. Management of psychogenic polydipsia is a difficult task. It is important to understand the available management options so that water intoxication and the consequences of hyponatremia do not occur.