The amount of fluid that determines polydipsia, or excessive drinking, is based on the amount of fluid per kilograms of body weight. The standard is 50 ml/kg of body weight. This means that a person who weighs 150 pounds and drinks more than 1 gallon per day would have a higher than normal intake
At this point these are the only reasons that physicians and researchers have identified that idiopathic DI develops. Physicians do know that other health risks may be present based on the cause of the DI and the potential hazards of treating the underlying cause may create more problems.
People who suffer from Diabetes Insipidus have several lifestyle restrictions to ensure that they don’t become dehydrated. They must take their medication in order to live a normal life that will not include using the bathroom frequently or drinking large amounts of fluid. Those who suffer from DI should consider a Medic Alert bracelet in order to alert emergency medical personnel of the special needs required for treatment in case they cannot communicate.
References
(1) National Kidney and Urologic Disease Information clearinghouse: Diabetes Insipidus
http://kidney.niddk.nih.gov/kudiseases/pubs/insipidus/