Diabetes Insipidus

What are the treatments for the disease?

Treatment of diabetes insipidus will depend on the cause. For instance, a person may need antibiotics for an infection. In other people, control of DI will involve use of different types of vasopressin, given as an injection into the muscle or through a nasal spray. Drinking enough fluids will also be essential to prevent dehydration.

If the DI is caused by problems in the kidneys, a water pill may be prescribed to keep the fluids in the body balanced. If other conditions are present, such as head injury, treatment may involve surgery to repair or relieve pressure on the brain. Those with a brain tumor may need surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy.

What are the side effects of the treatments?

Antibiotics can cause stomach upset, headache, or allergic reaction. Vasopressin may cause too much fluid to build up in the body, so fluid intake needs to be watched carefully. Treatments that require surgery pose a risk of bleeding, infection, and allergic reaction to anesthesia. Chemotherapy may cause more side effects, including hair loss and increased risk of infections.

What happens after treatment for the disease?

A person with a head injury may require physical therapy and occupational therapy during recovery. Those with kidney problems may need further treatment, continued medication, and monitoring. A pregnant woman may need no further treatment once she delivers the baby. Those with serious diseases, such as end-stage cancer, may die if treatment does not work.

How is the disease monitored?

Any new or worsening symptoms should be reported to the healthcare provider. A person may be advised to watch the amount of fluids he or she drinks and the amount of urine that he or she makes.