Diabetes insipidus

Alternative names:

DI

Treatment:

The cause of the underlying condition should be treated.

All cases should be treated with consistently high fluid intake. The volume of fluids consumed should approximately equal the volume of urine produced.

Vasopressin therapy (desmopressin), administered as a nasal spray, can control the urine output and fluid balance, thereby preventing dehydration for people with central DI. It is ineffective for nephrogenic DI; other medications (including hydrochlorothiazide) may be effective in controlling this form of the disorder.

Expectations (prognosis):

The outcome is dictated by the underlying disorder. If treated, diabetes insipidus does not cause severe problems or reduce life expectancy.

Complications:

Inadequate fluid consumption can result in:

• dehydration
  • dry skin
  • dry mucous membranes
  • sunken appearance to eyes
  • sunken fontanelles (soft spot) in infants
  • low body temperature
  • rapid heart rate
  • weight loss

• electrolyte imbalance
  • fatigue, lethargy
  • headache
  • irritability
  • muscle pains

Calling your health care provider:

Call your health care provider if symptoms indicate diabetes insipidus may be present.

If you have diabetes insipidus, call if complications develop.