Electrolytes are minerals in your body that help control various physiological functions. While anyone can experience an electrolyte imbalance at some time, people with diabetes insipidus are prone to this condition. Diabetes insipidus occurs when your body fails to produce enough antidiuretic hormone, commonly called ADH, or vasopressin. An imbalance of electrolytes can cause a range of symptoms and lead to serious disorders.
Causes
Damage to the hypothalamus can result in diabetes insipidus. Certain drugs, such as lithium, demeclocycline and amphotericin B can lead to this disorder. Other causes include infection, tumor, surgery or head injury. Hypercalcemia and polycystic kidney disease may also increase the risk of developing diabetes insipidus. Some cases of diabetes insipidus are due to an inherited disorder, known as nephrogenic DI. The resulting lack of antidiuretic hormone can inhibit your kidneys' ability to conserve water and upset the natural balance of electrolytes in your tissues and bloodstream.
Electrolyte Imbalance
Electrolytes are minerals with an electric charge known as ions. Your body relies on numerous electrolytes, such as calcium, potassium, sodium and magnesium, to maintain optimal health. These electrolytes help support heart rhythm, muscle contraction and nerve function. They also support your ability to build protein. In addition to the increased fluid intake common with diabetes insipidus, other factors, such as prolonged diarrhea, sweating or vomiting can lead to electrolyte imbalances. A high fever or prolonged sweating may also result in this imbalance.
Symptoms
The main symptom of diabetes insipidus is increased thirst. You may experience an uncontrollable or intense desire for fluids, especially ice water. The increase in fluid consumption dilutes the amount of minerals in your body and leads to an increase in urine output. When an electrolyte imbalance occurs, you may experience painful muscles, headache, irritability and fatigue. Low sodium levels from water intoxication may result in damage to your brain. Dehydration is a common result of your body's inability to stay hydrated. Symptoms of dehydration include rapid heart rate, low blood pressure, dry mouth and muscle weakness.
Treatments
Contact your doctor if you experience recurrent symptoms of an electrolyte imbalance or dehydration, especially if you experience an increase in thirst and urination. If medical tests confirm the presence of diabetes insipidus, treating the underlying cause of the condition, such as kidney disease, may help resolve the symptoms. While extreme thirst can make this difficult for individuals with diabetes insipidus, certain medications can help alleviate the intense thirst and make this condition more manageable.
