What is the term for excessive hunger often associated with diabetes?

The term for excessive hunger, particularly in the context of diabetes, is polyphagia. This condition is a common symptom of diabetes, especially when blood glucose levels are poorly controlled. When cells in the body cannot obtain glucose due to insufficient insulin or insulin resistance, the body responds by signaling hunger in an attempt to take in more food and more glucose, even though the blood sugar levels might be elevated. This miscommunication leads to a cycle of excessive eating without the satisfaction of hunger being truly alleviated.

Polydipsia refers to excessive thirst, which is also a symptom of diabetes. Polyuria is the increased production of urine that often results from high blood sugar levels leading to increased thirst and fluid intake. Hyperphagia describes an increased appetite or excessive eating without necessarily being linked specifically to diabetes. While hunger may be heightened in various conditions, polyphagia is the term specifically associated with diabetes and the physiological need for the body to acquire energy more effectively.