Diabetes insipidus (DI) is a rare medical condition that disrupts the body's ability to regulate water, resulting in excessive thirst and an unusually high volume of urine. This condition affects the kidneys' ability to concentrate urine and causes individuals to produce between 3 and 20 quarts of dilute, colourless urine daily, compared to an average of 1 to 2 quarts. It is pertinent to note that DI is not related to diabetes mellitus, which disrupts the body's insulin production.

Types Of Diabetes Insipidus

This condition results from damage to the hypothalamus or pituitary gland, which impairs the production or release of vasopressin, a hormone responsible for water retention. When vasopressin levels are inadequate, the kidneys fail to conserve water, leading to excessive urination. It can result from Brain injuries or surgeries, tumours, infections or inflammation and aneurysms.

Nephrogenic Diabetes Insipidus

This type occurs when the kidneys fail to respond to vasopressin, causing excessive fluid loss. Common triggers include chronic kidney disease, and electrolyte imbalances, such as high calcium or low potassium levels. Additionally, medications like lithium

and urinary tract blockages can also cause Nephrogenic DI.

Gestational Diabetes Insipidus

A rare condition seen only during pregnancy, this occurs when the placenta produces an enzyme that breaks down vasopressin or increases prostaglandin levels, reducing kidney sensitivity to the hormone. Symptoms of this are usually mild and often resolve postpartum but can recur in future pregnancies.

Symptoms And Warning Signs

• Severe thirst, often leading to the consumption of over a gallon of water daily
• Frequent urination (polyuria), sometimes exceeding 20 quarts per day
• Nighttime urination and bed-wetting
• Weakness, muscle pain, and preference for cold drinks

In severe cases, dehydration may develop, manifesting as fatigue, dizziness, dry mouth, confusion, nausea, or fainting. Infants and children with DI may exhibit crankiness, poor feeding, slow growth, fever, or vomiting.

Causes And Risk Factors

DI stems from issues with vasopressin production or response. Central DI arises from damage to brain structures, while nephrogenic DI relates to kidney dysfunction. Risk factors include:

- Genetic mutations affecting water regulation

- Certain medications like diuretics or lithium

- Metabolic disorders that alter calcium or potassium levels

- Brain injuries or surgeries

Diagnosis And Testing

Diagnosing DI involves a combination of medical history, physical exams, and specialized tests:

- Urinalysis: Evaluates urine concentration and glucose levels to distinguish DI from diabetes mellitus.

- Blood tests: Check electrolyte, glucose, and vasopressin levels.

- Water deprivation test: Measures changes in weight, blood sodium, and urine concentration during fluid restriction.

- MRI: Detects abnormalities in the hypothalamus or pituitary gland.

- Genetic screening: Identifies inherited risk factors.

Although DI is rare, affecting about 1 in 25,000 people, early diagnosis and targeted treatment can significantly improve quality of life. Researchers continue to explore its causes and treatments to better support those living with this challenging condition.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is becoming an increasingly important health issue among IT professionals, who are specifically at risk because of certain factors present in corporate culture. There has been a gradual rise in the prevalence of IBS among these individuals over the last ten years, due not only to better diagnosis but also to the accumulation of stress, erratic lifestyles, and physical inactivity.

What is contributing to IBS cases in the IT industry?

Dr Sudha Subhana Desai, Senior Consultant in Internal Medicine and Critical Care at Ruby Hall Clinic, Pune, said, "The first factor contributing to the development of IBS in the IT environment is constant psychological stress. Working in the information technology industry requires the ability to meet tight deadlines, maintain high-level performance, and spend many hours in front of a computer while coordinating with colleagues from different time zones. All these activities affect normal circadian rhythms, placing an individual's body under constant stress. This becomes particularly relevant as the connection between the central nervous system and the digestive tract via the gut-brain axis is involved in this mechanism. Thus, constant stress can lead to disturbances in gut motility, increased sensitisation, and an imbalance of the flora. Hence, individuals develop common IBS symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, constipation, diarrhoea, or an alternation between these."

How do dietary habits of IT professionals worsen IBS?

Further, Dr Desai spoke about how the dietary practices common among employees in IT professions exacerbate the issue. The expert said that the hectic nature of their work schedules often forces them to resort to unhealthy eating practices, including eating out at fast food restaurants. Their diet often consists of foods lacking dietary fibre but containing high levels of fats, sugars, and additives. This is unhealthy not only because it is nutritionally unbalanced but also because such foods may cause gastrointestinal problems. In addition, their unpredictable work hours make their diet and sleep habits less regular, thus disrupting digestive processes.

The role of lifestyle habits in IBS risk

Other lifestyle behaviours typical of employees in IT professions put them at higher risk. Firstly, a lack of exercise, which results from long working days, prolonged sitting, and little physical activity, slows down intestinal motility and decreases overall metabolism. Secondly, long screen exposure and sedentary behaviour have the same effect. Thirdly, poor sleep quality, experienced by night shift workers and those responsible for international projects, adversely impacts the hormonal balance necessary for healthy digestion. Lastly, high caffeine intake is typical of these employees, as they use coffee and energy drinks to alleviate fatigue.

While there is increased health consciousness, along with improved availability of medical care, the increase in IBS can only be partially explained by increased diagnoses. Rather, there is an actual increase due to stress factors and living patterns associated with the working environment of the IT industry.

Treating IBS among IT professionals

In the treatment of IBS among IT professionals, a number of factors must be addressed in order to help individuals cope with their conditions. One such factor is stress management. Professionals must be taught various methods of coping with stress, ranging from exercises such as yoga and breathing techniques to more structured interventions. The environment must also be conducive to health and well-being. In other words, organisations must facilitate a healthy working environment and encourage individuals to achieve a work-life balance while reducing any workload stresses. Professionals must also make alterations to their dietary habits, including eating regularly, having fibre-rich meals, and avoiding highly processed foods.

Did you know? Discontinuing activities and overly restrictive behaviour, including unnecessary bed rest, does not improve implantation chances when it comes to IVF. Instead, balanced living, moderate activity, proper nutrition, and emotional well-being are important after the procedure. Hence, make sure to follow the advice given by a fertility consultant. Women should prioritise their health.

A failed IVF attempt is not just a financial crisis but also an emotional rollercoaster. For several couples struggling with infertility, IVF offers a ray of hope and may even help them conceive a baby. However, sometimes the attempt can fail due to several reasons, but do not let that affect your motivation to engage in your favourite activities.

Dr Rashmi Agarwal, Fertility Specialist, Nova IVF Fertility, Gurugram, in an interview with Health and Me, spoke about the rising incidence of infertility in young couples, and how following a restricted behaviour may only lower the odds of conceiving a baby.

How is IVF coming to the rescue of young couples?

Infertility cases are rising among couples. There are a large number of couples who struggle with infertility and opt for in vitro fertilisation (IVF). However, couples tend to have doubts regarding it. For those who undergo IVF, the period after embryo transfer is filled with hope, anxiety, and a strong urge to “do everything right”. Many women feel that after the procedure, complete bed rest, taking it easy, and avoiding any activity can increase the chances of pregnancy. However, maintaining a balanced routine is often more beneficial than extreme rest.

What happens after an embryo transfer

After embryo transfer, many patients assume that movement could disturb implantation, and they suddenly avoid all activities without asking the doctor. They try not to walk, work, or do any household chores. But do not worry or panic, as the embryo is safely placed inside the uterus and cannot “fall out” with normal movement. The body is naturally designed to support implantation. There is no evidence available that claims that strict bed rest improves success rates. However, staying inactive for long periods can lead to stiffness, poor blood circulation, and increased stress or anxiety, which can take a toll on overall well-being.

How to improve chances of IVF success

Light activities like walking, gentle stretching, and routine household tasks are generally safe, as recommended by the doctor. Eating a nutritious diet, staying hydrated by drinking 3–4 litres of water per day, de-stressing by doing meditation or reading, and getting enough sleep can be beneficial for women. Many women can also overthink, become anxious, and constantly worry about pregnancy. Hence, opting for relaxing activities like deep breathing, meditation, reading, staying connected with loved ones, and maintaining a positive mindset can help patients cope better during the waiting period, although it is not advised to overexert or do any strenuous activities without the doctor’s knowledge.

Following the expert’s instructions without fail, staying active, doing light exercises, and paying attention to physical and emotional well-being can support a smoother IVF journey.

Delhi-NCR witnessed unexpected showers in the city this year in the month of April. Before the heatwave could get as severe as it usually is every season, there were a few days where the national capital witnessed refreshing showers—but as it turns out, these showers often increase the risk of diseases like malaria. Yes, unexpected showers may bring temporary relief from heat, but they also quietly reset the risk for diseases like malaria. The concern today is not just rainfall, but how changing climate patterns are shifting the timeline of disease transmission—often weeks before the monsoon fully arrives.

Ahead of World Malaria Day, Dr Suranjit Chatterjee, Senior Consultant-Internal Medicine, Indraprastha Apollo Hospital, Delhi, spoke about the effects of such unexpected rains ahead of the monsoon season.

Has the malaria pattern changed?

Malaria has long been seen as a monsoon-linked illness, but that pattern is changing. Intermittent rainfall, rising temperatures, and increased humidity are now creating ideal breeding conditions much earlier in the year. Even a short spell of rain can lead to water accumulation in urban areas—on terraces, construction sites, in clogged drains, and in poorly managed storage spaces. These become hidden breeding grounds for mosquitoes, accelerating their life cycle and increasing the risk of early transmission.

When should you get tested for malaria?

From a healthcare perspective, this shift is significant. The first fever after early showers is often overlooked or dismissed as a seasonal viral infection. However, malaria in its early stage can closely resemble common viral illnesses, presenting with symptoms such as fever, chills, headache, body ache, and fatigue. This overlap frequently delays diagnosis. Any fever that persists beyond 2–3 days, recurs, or does not respond to basic treatment should be tested promptly. Early detection remains critical to preventing complications.

What are the symptoms of malaria?

Early malaria can look like a common viral fever. The symptoms of the disease are:

1. Body aches
2. Fever
3. Chills
4. Weakness
5. Headaches

Malaria prevention matters

Waiting for the monsoon to begin preventive action is no longer effective. The response must start with the first signs of rain. Clearing drains, eliminating stagnant water, monitoring construction zones, and ensuring proper waste management are essential early steps. At the household level, covering water containers, maintaining clean terraces, and regular checks for water accumulation can significantly reduce risk. Some of the key precautions to take against malaria are the following:

1. Use a mosquito repellent before going outdoors
2. Wear long sleeves and light coloured clothes
3. Use bed nets
4. Avoid keeping the windows open, especially in the evening
5. Standing water are breeding ground for malaria; avoid water sit in coolers or pots for too long

A year-round public health priority

World Malaria Day serves as a reminder that malaria prevention is not seasonal—it is continuous. In an era of unpredictable weather patterns, cities and communities must adapt quickly. Acting only when cases begin to rise means reacting too late. The real shift lies in recognising that prevention must begin with the first unexpected shower, not the peak of the monsoon.