What it is
It is usually caused by a problem with the hormone vasopressin, either because the brain does not make enough (cranial) or the kidneys do not respond to it (nephrogenic). Causes include head injury, brain surgery, tumours, some medicines such as lithium, and inherited conditions.
Treatment depends on the type and may include a medicine called desmopressin, treating the cause, and drinking enough water.
Common signs
- Being very thirsty all the time
- Passing large amounts of pale urine
- Needing to get up at night to pee
- Tiredness from disturbed sleep
How it is usually diagnosed
- Blood and urine tests for sodium and concentration
- Water deprivation test or other specialist tests
- MRI of the brain in some cases
Records worth keeping
Keeping these together makes each appointment easier, especially when you see a new doctor:
- Sodium and urine concentration results
- Specialist test results
- MRI reports
- Your desmopressin dose and an emergency card
Questions to ask your doctor
- Which type do I have, and what caused it?
- What should I do if I am unwell and cannot drink?
- Do I need an emergency card or alert?
When to get help right away
Call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department if you have:
- Confusion, severe headache, seizures, or being unable to drink while passing lots of urine: call 112
This page is general information. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace a doctor who knows your history. Medfold keeps your records organised; it does not interpret them.