What is a water deprivation test?
This test is performed to check the regulation of fluid balance and and concentration power of your kidneys. Regulation of the fluid balance is a complex process which involves the pituitary hormone called antidiuretic hormone (ADH), the response of the kidneys to ADH, amount of fluid intake, various salts content of your body, surrounding temperature, etc. This test can be done only under medical supervision as it can potentially cause dehydration, fluid and salt imbalance. OUTLINE OF THE PROCEDURE Your named nurse will introduce herself and explain what to expect. A small needle/canula will be inserted into a vein in the back of your hand or arm. This is called a venflon and allows your named nurse to obtain blood samples without causing too much discomfort. This test involves initial measurement of blood and urine concentration at 0900 a.m. after fasting from mid-night. You will then be allowed dry food only without any fluid up until 4.00 p.m. Body weight, amount of urine output wi
