Causes, Symptoms, And Treatment Of Diabetes Insipidus

Other Symptoms

Depending on how severe the condition is, patients with diabetes insipidus may lose as much as sixteen quarts of urine a day, whereas a healthy adult typically only loses around three quarts. Losing too much water can cause muscle weakness or pain, lethargy, and irritability. Affected children and infants may experience inconsolable crying, unexplained fussiness, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, weight loss, delayed growth, or an electrolyte imbalance. Thus, individuals should seek treatment at the first sign of increased urine output and excessive thirst.

Read about treatment for diabetes insipidus next.

Adjustments In Consumption Of Sodium And Water

Diabetes insipidus patients may be advised by their physician to make adjustments in consumption of sodium and water as a part of their treatment regimen for the disorder. Different forms of diabetes insipidus have various recommendations on water and sodium in an individual's diet. Those affected by central diabetes insipidus are typically recommended to consume a diet low in salt. This low-salt diet helps decrease an excessive intake of water. Individuals affected by nephrogenic diabetes insipidus are also recommended to change to a diet low in sodium. In these cases, the low sodium functions to decrease the volume of diluted urine the kidneys are making and excreting. However, with a low salt diet, these patients will have to make sure to drink enough water so they do not become dangerously dehydrated. Individuals affected by primary polydipsia with dipsogenic diabetes insipidus will be advised to decrease their fluid intake significantly. For these patients, a reduction in the consumption of fluids often cannot be managed without the help of medication.

Learn more about how to treat diabetes insipidus now.