Polyphagia
Polyphagia
Polyphagia (pronunciation: /ˌpɒlɪˈfeɪdʒiə/) is a medical term that describes an excessive or extreme hunger or increased appetite. It is one of the three main symptoms of diabetes, along with polydipsia (excessive thirst) and polyuria (excessive urination).
Etymology
The term "polyphagia" comes from the Greek words "poly" meaning "much" or "many", and "phagein" meaning "to eat". It literally translates to "eating much" or "eating many".
Related Terms
- Hyperphagia: An abnormally increased appetite for consumption of food frequently associated with injury to the hypothalamus.
- Polydipsia: Excessive thirst or excess drinking. The word derives from the Greek word 'poly' meaning much or many, and 'dipsa' meaning thirst.
- Polyuria: Excessive or an abnormally large production or passage of urine.
- Diabetes: A group of metabolic disorders characterized by a high blood sugar level over a prolonged period of time.
Causes
Polyphagia can be caused by various conditions such as diabetes, hyperthyroidism, hypoglycemia, and certain mental health conditions. It can also be a side effect of certain medications.
Treatment
Treatment for polyphagia typically involves treating the underlying cause. For example, if diabetes is the cause, treatment may involve taking insulin or other medications to help control blood sugar levels.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Polyphagia
- Wikipedia's article - Polyphagia
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