Mohan, ViswanathanKalra, SanjayZargar, Abdul HamidTiwaskar, MangeshThakor, PritiMalve, Harshad2024-11-302024-11-302024-06Mohan Viswanathan, Kalra Sanjay, Zargar Abdul Hamid, Tiwaskar Mangesh, Thakor Priti, Malve Harshad. Diabetes Mellitus and Fluid Imbalance: The Need for Adequate Hydration. Journal of the Association of Physicians of India. 2024 Jun; 72(6): 16–240004-5772https://imsear.searo.who.int/handle/123456789/237463The effect of hydration in modulating metabolic disease risk is a comparatively recent concept. Diabetic patients are at increased risk of dehydration due to osmotic diuresis. Undiagnosed or undertreated hyperglycemia may lead to electrolyte imbalance and elevated renal burden of glucose excretion, which may alter fluid reabsorption in the kidney. Also, the presence of one or more contributory factors, such as inadequate fluid intake, strenuous exercise, high temperatures, alcohol consumption, diarrhea, acute illnesses, fever, nausea, and vomiting, may put diabetic patients at increased risk of dehydration and electrolyte imbalance. Certain antidiabetic agents used by diabetic patients may cause fluid retention/deficits and/or electrolyte abnormalities in a few patients. Thus, drinking ample amounts of water and fluids with appropriate electrolyte composition is important to prevent dehydration. Successful management of dehydration in patients with diabetes is an unmet need and can best be accomplished by maintaining adequate hydration status.Journal ArticleIndiaDirector, Dr Mohans Diabetes Specialities Centre; Madras Diabetes Research Foundation (MDRF), Chennai, Tamil NaduConsultant and Head, Bharti Research Institute of Diabetes & Endocrinology (BRIDE), Karnal, HaryanaDirector, Center for Diabetes and Endocrine Care, Srinagar, Jammu and KashmirConsultant Physician and Diabetologist, Shilpa Medical Research CentreHead, Medical Affairs Southern AsiaTherapy Area Head, Self-Care; Medical Affairs, JNTL Consumer Health (India) Private Limited, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India