Polyuria, Polydipsia and Possible Diabetes Insipidus?
Discussion
The body is smart. It has mechanisms for maintaining balances within the body in a closely controlled manner but allows for a variety of states. This is very true for fluid balance in the body which is highly controlled between almost all of the major body organ systems. When fluid is low, the sensor sends signals for us to drink, and conserves fluid until we can. When the fluid is high, the kidneys excrete the excess and sends signals not to drink. Usually it works very well. While there are many pathological states that can cause polyuria and/or polydipsia, the most common reason is excessive fluid intake because of habit or behavioral causes.
Polyuria is an excessive production of urine. Normal urination varies by age and decreases as the kidneys mature. Polyuria needs to be distinguished from frequent toileting, nocturia and enuresis, and just plain urinary frequency. Anatomic abnormalities such as meatal stenosis, posterior urethral valves, or labial adhesions may also appear to cause frequent urination. Additionally, some normal fluids such as caffeine can have a short term diuretic effect.
Normal urine volume is:
Birth – 150 ml/kg/day
2 years – 100-110 ml/kg/day
2 years 40-50 ml/kg/day
Causes of polyuria include:
Fluid excess
Polydipsia
Intravenous fluid overadministration
Diabetes mellitus and hyperglycemia
Diabetes insipidus
Diuretics
Electrolyte abnormalities
Hypercalcemia
Nocturnal polyuria
Enuresis
Confirmation of polyuria can...
Source: PediatricEducation.org - Category: Pediatrics Authors: Pediatric Education Tags: Uncategorized Source Type: news
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