Diabetes Insipidus: Symptoms & Causes
Diabetes insipidus (DI), also called water diabetes, is an uncommon but manageable condition in which the body produces excess urine and cannot retain water properly. Diabetes insipidus can be life-long or temporary and mild or extreme relying on the underlying cause.
Extreme thirst and excessive urination are common Diabetes insipidus symptoms . DI is caused due to a problem with a hormone called antidiuretic hormone (ADH, or vasopressin). The body doesn't adequately produce ADH, and the kidneys don't utilize it correctly.
In severe cases, a person may excrete up to 30 litres of urine daily. If left untreated, diabetes insipidus can result in dehydration and, eventually, coma due to the high concentration of salts in the blood, especially sodium. Generally, DI does not cause major problems, and patients may control the condition by maintaining a healthy hydration level in their bodies.
This can be more challenging for those who may have trouble managing their thirst, like newborns or older adults. These people may experience serious consequences, such as confusion, seizures or brain trauma.
Types of Diabetes Insipidus
Insipidus has two basic categories, which are as follows:
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Nephrogenic diabetes insipidus: NDI occurs when the kidneys are unable to respond properly to vasopressin, even when it is present in normal or elevated amounts.
This type of diabetes insipidus can be caused by genetic mutations, kidney disorders, certain medications (such as lithium or certain diuretics), and electrolyte imbalances. -
Central diabetes insipidus: CDI occurs when there is a deficiency in the production or release of vasopressin (antidiuretic hormone) from the hypothalamus or pituitary gland.
This type of diabetes insipidus is often caused by damage to the hypothalamus or pituitary gland due to injury, surgery, tumor, or other conditions.
Symptoms of Diabetes Insipidus
The most common symptoms of Diabetes Insipidus in adults are:
- Extreme undying thirst (polydipsia)
- Frequent urination ( polyuria)
- Nocturia – waking up frequently at night to urinate
- Bed-wetting
- Dry skin
- Constipation
- Weak muscles
In infants and small children, the symptoms are:
- Diarrhea
- Fever
- Vomiting
- Crying uncontrollably
- Trouble sleeping
- Weight loss
- Delayed growth