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Abstract

The physiology of thirst is complex with stimuli linked to dehydration like hyperosmolarity and hypovolemia had been described. There is also an association with the oral cavity and a behavioral and social dimension. This symptom is frequent, affecting more than 70% of patients, persisting for more than 7 days in intensive care units, with a high intensity from 3 to 7 /10 and a high distress linked to the symptom. However, this symptom is underestimated by the health care staff. Numerous factors associated with thirst had been described notably pathologies, treatment and metabolic anomalies. Long-term consequences aren’t known yet but could participate in a post traumatic stress disease. Simple therapeutics can decrease the burden. Particularities in the invasively ventilated population are not known. Studies are needed to better know the physiology of thirst in intensive care units and provide better care.