Diabetes Mellitus is a condition that is caused by chronic hyperglycemia (high blood sugar), because of a resistance to or complete absence of insulin. Polyuria in diabetes patients, especially in those where the disease is untreated, is an embarrassing and uncomfortable problem – and unfortunately, is very common. Excess glucose in the blood gets absorbed by the kidneys, but when they become oversaturated, the extra glucose goes into the urine. The glucose causes the urine to attract water, leading to excessive urination and dehydration.
Why is the Link between Diabetes Mellitus & Polyuria So Dangerous?
Polyuria in diabetes is a very big problem, because of glucose’s ability to pull water out of the blood and into the urine. This process (called osmosis) creates a dangerous situation for those with diabetes, and polyuria becomes not just a symptom, but a cause. When the blood is depleted of water, the blood glucose levels become higher, causing a worsening hyperglycemic condition for those with diabetes. Polyuria is the result, which then begins a vicious cycle. If the blood glucose levels are not properly monitored and controlled, this diabetes and polyuria situation can rapidly get out of control, leading to a very serious health crisis.
There is another situation which can happen with polyuria in diabetes cases. When your cells don’t receive enough glucose for energy, the body will burn fat, which produces ketones (acids). High levels of these ketones may lead to a condition called Ketoacidosis, which can lead to diabetic coma or even death. This is why the symptom of excessive and/or frequent urination or polyuria in diabetes patients is a ‘wake-up call’ to have your glucose levels checked immediately and make changes to your diet and lifestyle. Your life may depend on it!
Polyuria and Diabetes: Prevention Methods
While the main cause of polyuria in diabetes sufferers is a high blood glucose level, there are other substances which can add to the problem and should be avoided. This includes any diuretic foods that contain caffeine (coffee, tea, chocolate, and soft drinks), hot spicy foods, alcoholic beverages, and highly acidic juices. High doses of vitamin C can also cause polyuria. Diabetes patients should always be careful not to consume these food items, but especially those with diabetes and polyuria. There are many different kinds of prescription drugs that can also add to the problem of polyuria in diabetes – treatments for everything from psoriasis to migraines (and all diuretic drugs). Consult your doctor to find out if your medicines are making your condition worse.
With a careful monitoring of blood sugar and a healthy diet, polyuria in diabetes patients can be a thing of the past!
