Health A-Z

Gestational diabetes usually resolves after delivery, but it's important to continue monitoring blood sugar levels postpartum and to follow up with your healthcare provider for ongoing care. If you've been diagnosed with gestational diabetes, it's essential to follow your healthcare provider's recommendations closely to reduce the risk of complications for both you and your baby.

1. Excessive Thirst (Polydipsia): Individuals with DI often feel extremely thirsty, no matter how much fluid they drink.
2. Excessive Urination (Polyuria): This is typically the most noticeable symptom. People with DI can pass between 3 and 20 liters of urine per day, leading to frequent urination.
3. Dehydration: Despite drinking large amounts of fluid, individuals may still become dehydrated due to the excessive loss of water through urination.
4. Fatigue and Weakness: Dehydration and disruption of normal bodily functions can lead to feelings of fatigue and weakness.

1. Fluid Replacement: Individuals with DI need to drink enough fluids to replace the large volumes lost through urination. This often involves drinking water frequently throughout the day.
2. Medications: Depending on the type of DI, medications may be prescribed to replace or mimic the action of ADH. Desmopressin acetate (DDAVP) is a synthetic form of ADH that is commonly used to treat central DI. Alternatively, if DI is caused by kidney insensitivity to ADH (nephrogenic DI), medications such as thiazide diuretics or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may be used to improve kidney function.
3. Identifying and Treating Underlying Causes: If DI is caused by an underlying condition, such as a tumor or injury to the brain or pituitary gland, addressing the underlying cause may help manage the symptoms.

1. Water Deprivation Test: This is the gold standard for diagnosing DI. It involves restricting fluid intake to stimulate the production of antidiuretic hormone (ADH, also known as vasopressin) and monitoring urine and blood samples for changes in concentration.
2. Urinalysis: A urine sample may be collected to measure its concentration and to rule out other causes of polyuria.
3. Blood Tests: Blood samples may be taken to measure levels of electrolytes, such as sodium and potassium, as well as ADH levels.
4. MRI or CT Scans: These imaging tests may be used to identify abnormalities in the brain, such as tumors or damage to the pituitary gland, which can cause DI.