Final answer:
The primary concern in managing diabetes insipidus is maintaining fluid and electrolyte balance due to the risk of dehydration from excessive urination caused by insufficient ADH production.
Step-by-step explanation:
Understanding Diabetes Insipidus
Diabetes insipidus is a condition characterized by chronic underproduction of the antidiuretic hormone (ADH) or a mutation in the ADH receptor. It differs from diabetes mellitus, which involves high blood glucose levels. In diabetes insipidus, the posterior pituitary gland does not release enough ADH, resulting in the inability of kidneys to retain water, leading to excessive urination and increased thirst. This can cause fluid and electrolyte imbalance due to the loss of large amounts of water through urine, which must be continually replaced to prevent dehydration
When managing diabetes insipidus, the primary concern is maintaining fluid and electrolyte balance. It is crucial to monitor and adjust fluid intake to prevent dehydration and to ensure electrolyte levels remain stable. While adjustments in diet and exercise as well as glucose control are critical in diabetes mellitus, they are not primary concerns in diabetes insipidus, where the maintenance of proper hydration is key. Neurologic changes are not the primary concern either, though severe cases of dehydration can lead to such changes.
Therefore, the final answer to the question regarding the primary concern with diabetes insipidus is c. Fluid and electrolyte balance. This requires continuous monitoring and management to avoid the potentially severe effects of dehydration and the resulting electrolyte imbalances.