In young children who are unable to communicate, it may be difficult to realise that they are excessively thirsty. Signs and symptoms that could suggest diabetes insipidus include:
Those preschool children who are older and have diabetes insipidus will show an ongoing desire to drink, and an increased level of urination. Those who are potty trained may make frequent visits to the toilet, and may start to wet the bed or have accidents in the daytime when they previously didn’t.
Diabetes insipidus due to a brain tumour, is often associated with slow growth.
Any child with increased thirst and urination should be seen urgently by a doctor to determine whether this is due to a type of diabetes, and if so, the cause of the diabetes.
The main symptoms in children with diabetes insipidus will be:
They may start to wet the bed or have accidents in the daytime when they previously didn’t. They may also show a loss of appetite, weight loss or fatigue.
Diabetes insipidus due to a brain tumour is often associated with slow growth
Any child with increased thirst and urination should be seen urgently by a doctor to determine whether this is due to a type of diabetes, and if so, the cause of the diabetes.
The main symptoms for young people with diabetes insipidus will be:
They may also have symptoms including:
Diabetes insipidus due to a brain tumour is often associated with slow growth and delayed, slowed or stopped puberty in this age group.
Needing to go to the toilet frequently can make it difficult to go on journeys or to go out to places where there will not be facilities close by, and sometimes young people might choose to avoid these situations when they can. They might also start to miss school or college, because the symptoms are embarrassing or awkward for them, or they are worried about not making it to the toilet in time. These are understandable concerns, and if this is bothering you, or a young person in your care, we really encourage you to go to your GP to get some help.
All young people with the symptoms of diabetes should be seen urgently by a doctor.
If you are a young person select for more information about seeing your GP.
You might think these symptoms are an awkward subject to talk about, but your doctor should be understanding and keen to see how he or she can help.
If you are a parent or carer of a young person, and you are concerned about their symptoms, explain that you think they should go to the GP and offer to make them an appointment. Bare in mind that, depending on their age and circumstances, they may choose to go to the GP on their own, although many appreciate having a parent or carer with them, whatever their age.
If you are worried about the child, make an appointment with your doctor.
If the symptoms of signs are sudden onset or severe, either take them to the emergency department or call 999