Diabetes insipidus (DI) is a medical condition that causes extreme thirst and frequent urination. Although it shares a similar name with diabetes mellitus, the medical condition affecting the regulation of blood sugar, the two conditions are not related. A disruption in the functioning of how the antidiuretic hormone vasopressin communicates with the kidneys causes DI. With the condition, the kidneys lose the ability to concentrate urine properly. Because there are several different causes of the disorder, treatment depends on the factors that cause the disruption in the system. Recognizing symptoms of the disorder is important for proper treatment to begin and to prevent dehydration.
Excessive Thirst
Individuals with DI experience feelings of being thirsty all the time. Even after drinking large amounts of water, patients feel thirsty. As the urine production increases, the thirst drive also increases.
Excessive Urination
After drinking large amounts of fluid, the kidneys produce large amounts of urine. These two symptoms are the most common for people with DI. An average adult produced around two quarts of urine daily. A person with DI may produce up to 16 quarts of urine a day, according to the Mayo Clinic. The amount of urine produced is proportionate to the fluid volume consumed. The urine is diluted and almost clear in color.
Nocturia
Because DI involves needing to urinate frequent, waking up at night to use the bathroom is common. Some individuals may sleep too soundly and not waken to the need to urinate. This may cause bedwetting for some people with DI, states the Mayo Clinic.
Symptoms in Children
Children with DI may experience additional symptoms related to the disorder. They may have a fever, become agitated easily, experience nausea and vomiting or have diarrhea. Infants with the condition may also have poor feeding habits and fail to grow, according to The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. They may also cry inconsolably and have frequent wet diapers, weight loss and dry skin with cool-feeling arms and legs.
