This document discusses the endocrine system and diabetes. It provides details on two major symptoms of diabetes: polyuria (increased urine production) and polydipsia (increased thirst). The most common causes of polyuria are diabetes mellitus and diabetes insipidus, while the main cause of polydipsia is an electrolyte imbalance or decrease in blood volume. When polyuria and polydipsia occur together, doctors first check glucose levels to diagnose or rule out diabetes.

1. Chapter 11: Endocrine System Two major symptoms of diabetes: Polyuria Polydipsia Rebecca Ray

3. Causes of Polyuria There are many possible causes of polyuria, or increased urine production. The most common cause is diabetes mellitus or diabetes insipidus. Just to name some other causes: Drugs (diuretics, e.g. Lasix), almost any kind of kidney failure, pregnancy, cold exposure, congestive heart failure, Cushing’s, Addison’s, liver disease, and simply drinking too much water. Here is a flow chart demonstrating the diagnosis of polyuria and how to find a cause. The boxes in red should only be performed by a medical professional, preferably under observation.

4. Causes of Polydipsia There are fewer causes of polydipsia than of polyuria, but when they are present together, the first thing a doctor will do is check glucose levels in order to diagnose or rule out diabetes. Other possible causes include: electrolyte imbalance, decrease in blood volume, or a disruption of osmotic equilibrium. Some mental illnesses may cause people to drink liquid regardless of thirst, and people with developmental problems or dementia may simply forget or not be able to keep track of their water intake. There really is such a thing as too much water, and it can be fatal.

5. This picture portrays the major symptoms of diabetes: polyuriaand nocturia, polydipsia, frequent infections (often yeast or fungus), fatigue, unexplained weight loss, and blurred vision.