Diabetes Insipidus
Alternate Names : Water Diabetes, DI
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.
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