What is Diabetes Insipidus?

Many people are unfamiliar with the condition known as diabetes insipidus, commonly referred to as DI. After all, when most people think of diabetes they think of diabetes mellitus, a condition that involves insulin. DI has nothing to do with insulin, but is a condition caused by a deficiency of ADH, or antidiuretic hormone. DI may also be caused by a sensitivity to ADH. This condition causes excessive amounts of extremely diluted urine to be produced and excreted.

DI can be tricky to diagnose because the symptoms are similar to diabetes mellitus. Excessive urination and thirst are common symptom of diabetes mellitus but may also be indicative of other conditions such as those related to the bladder and kidneys. The difference between insipidus and mellitus is that insipidus does not include elevated blood glucose levels. There are a variety of tests that are administered to check for DI.

Your doctor will most likely run blood glucose tests, bicarbonate and calcium tests, urinalysis and what's known as a fluid deprivation test. All of these tests will be evaluated to determine whether or not symptoms are caused by DI or are due to another condition. There are three different types of insipidus -- central, nephrogenic and gestational. Central insipidus is often caused by issues related to the pituitary gland. Nephrogenic inspidus is due to a defect in the kidney tubules. Gestational inspidius happens only during pregnancy and is caused by an enzyme that affects ADH levels.

There are various risks that come with this condition. Dehydration, rapid heart rate, muscle weakness, dry mouth and weight loss may occur. As you can imagine, DI can be dangerous when left untreated. The type of treatment required will depend on the type of DI you have. For central DI, desmopressin is often used. The nephrogenic variety may be treated with a low-salt diet and a medication called hydrochlorothiazide. For gestational insipidus, treatment is usually the same as with central insipidus.

If you suspect you may have diabetes insipidus, it is crucial to see your doctor immediately to obtain a proper diagnosis. With early detection and proper management, this condition can be treated before it has a chance to cause serious or life-threatening medical problems. If a diagnosis of DI is reached, your doctor will explain the treatment and management process and let you know the next steps in dealing with the disease.

Copyright 2007 Jim Sterling - All Rights Reserved



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Pittsburgh Tribune-Review
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