I have my first appt with a nephrologist today to try and rule out diabetes insipidus. what can i expect on this first appt?

H/P and lab: Expect a good history and physical exam and being scheduled for urine and blood testing. Also, a chance to ask questions and receive answers. Study up before the visit to know what to ask.

Diagnostic Process: The first goal is to verify if you have diabetes insipidus. This done through a history, physical, and tests done on simultaneous samples of blood and urine. Next is to evaluate the likely causes. At your follow appointments, he/she will discuss results and treatment options.

Diab Insipidis: There are two forms of DI. One is pituitary deficiency of vasopressin. The second is kidney hyporesponse to vasopressin. Both are usually treated with exogenous vasopressin, though using HCTZ (hydrochlorothiazide) with low salt diet can also be used. Testing involves water deprivation testing - avoiding any fluid x 12 hours with urine test and blood test. This will determine type of DI that you have and severity.