Though produced by the hypothalamus, the portion of the brain that stimulates the pituitary gland, the antidiuretic hormone is actually stored and released into the bloodstream by the pituitary gland.
Diabetes insipidus is a condition that results from insufficient production of the antidiuretic hormone (ADH), a hormone that helps the kidneys and body conserve the correct amount of water. It is not related to the more common type of diabetes called diabetes mellitus. Normally, the antidiuretic hormone controls the kidneys' output of urine. It is secreted by the hypothalamus (a small gland located at the base of the brain) and stored in the pituitary gland and then released into the bloodstream. ADH is secreted to decrease the amount of urine output so that dehydration does not occur. Diabetes insipidus, however, causes excessive production of very diluted urine and excessive thirst. The disease is categorized into groups. Two of the groups are described below:
Diabetes insipidus can be caused by several conditions, including the following:
The following are the most common symptoms of diabetes insipidus. However, each individual may experience symptoms differently. Symptoms may include:
The symptoms of diabetes insipidus may resemble other conditions or medical problems. Always consult your doctor for a diagnosis.
In addition to a complete medical history and medical examination, diagnostic procedures for diabetes insipidus may include:
Treating diabetes insipidus depends on what is causing the disease. Treating the cause usually treats the diabetes insipidus. Specific treatment for diabetes insipidus will be determined by your doctor based on:
Treatment may include modified antidiuretic hormone drugs or drugs to stimulate the production of the antidiuretic hormone.
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