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Diabetes Insipidus and Exercise

Diabetes insipidus, a disease in which the body produces too much urine, can cause severe dehydration. If you have this disease you must be especially careful to take in adequate fluids when you exercise. Consult your doctor about the amount of water you will need every day. Make sure you always have water available while you are exercising, and take any medications regularly.

  1. Diabetes Insipidus

    • Diabetes insipidus affects the proper functioning of the kidneys. It is completely different from the group of diseases called diabetes mellitus (type 1 and 2 diabetes), which are disorders in the way that the body uses sugar.

      In diabetes insipidus, the body produces excessive urine. People with the disease can experience extreme thirst and a large urine output--up to 16 quarts (15 liters) a day.

    Causes

    • Diabetes insipidus occurs from a breakdown in the system that your body uses to regulate how much fluid in your body is excreted as urine. This can happen either because there is a defect in or damage to the kidneys themselves, or because your body does not produce enough of the hormone that regulates kidney function. In the case of hormone deficiency, your doctor might prescribe replacement medicine.

    Exercising

    • Because dehydration is always a risk with this disease, it is important to stay hydrated. This is particularly true during exercise, when you lose additional fluids to perspiration. You should consult with your doctor about how much water you will need during the day, take care to stay hydrated before, during, and after exercise, and bring water with you in case none is available.

      If you are just beginning an exercise program, start out with a moderate effort. If you already exercise and wish to increase your efforts, do so gradually. Do not try to make major gains quickly. It is a good idea to consult with your doctor before any changes to your exercise routine.

      Be especially aware of external factors such as temperature an altitude. Hot weather and high altitudes can increase your risk, even if you do not vary your routine.

      If you experience symptoms of dehydration, such as a rapid heart rate, muscle cramps, or nausea, stop exercising immediately and seek medical attention.

      If your doctor has prescribed you medicine for this condition, you should be sure to take it regularly. Patients with diabetes insipidus should also wear a medical alert ID bracelet in case of a medical emergency.

    Electrolyte Inbalance

    • Diabetes insipidus can affect not only your hydration levels, but also your electrolyte balance. This imbalance can exacerbate the effects of dehydration. You might wish to take supplements, such as sports drinks or other over-the-counter replacements. A drink containing electrolytes will both rehydrate you and help to combat electrolyte imbalances.

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