People with diabetes and other individuals who experience an overwhelming, pathological desire to consume an excessive amount of food should notify their physician. Diagnosis of polyphagia begins with a medical history and physical examination. The physician will ask questions such as:

• Has there been a recent change in eating habits?
• What types of foods are consumed in a typical day?
• How much food does the patient eat in a typical day?
• Is the patient taking any new medications?
• Does the patient use any recreational drugs?
• Does hunger occur during sleep?
• Does hunger occur just prior to menstruation?
• Does the patient drink and urinate frequently?
• Has the patient experienced an unintentional weight loss or gain?
• Could the patient be pregnant?

Psychological evaluation will also be performed in certain cases. Additionally, the physician may perform diagnostic tests, such as:

• Blood tests, including glucose tests, commonly used to detect diabetes, and thyroid function tests, used to detect hyperthyroidism.
  
  
• Toxicology screen. A test used to detect recreational drug use.
  
  
• Cranial CAT scan (computed axial tomography). A type of x-ray of the brain, which can identify damage to the hypothalamus, the part of the brain that controls hunger.

Treatment of polyphagia is directed at its cause. For instance, a diabetic individual may be prescribed insulin (a hormone that regulates glucose) or antidiabetic agents to lower glucose (blood sugar). A patient who has hyperthyroidism may require medication, surgery or radiation therapy, and individuals with anxiety or depression may benefit from medication and mental health counseling.

Individuals who experience increased hunger because of a growth spurt or pregnancy typically do not require further treatment. Those who stop abusing drugs will generally resume their normal appetite.