ADAM Health Encyclopedia

Urine output - decreased

Definition

Decreased urine output is defined as producing less than 500 milliliters of urine in 24 hours.

Alternative Names

Considerations

Although a significant decrease in urine output may indicate a serious, even life-threatening condition, adequate urine output can be restored with prompt medical treatment.

Causes

• Dehydration due to vomiting, diarrhea, or fever, with a lack of adequate fluid intake
• Total urinary tract obstruction, such as may result from an enlarged prostate
• Severe infection leading to shock
• Drugs such as anticholinergics, methotrexate, and diuretics

Home Care

Follow prescribed fluid regimens and measure urine output as directed.

When to Contact a Medical Professional

Contact your health care provider if you have:

• A noticeable and consistent decrease in urine output
• Vomiting , diarrhea, or high fever and are unable to replace fluids by mouth
• A decrease in urine output associated with dizziness, lightheadedness, or rapid pulse

The doctor will perform a physical exam and ask questions about your medical history and symptoms, including:

• Time pattern
  • When did this begin?
  • Did it occur suddenly?
  • Has it rapidly become worse?
• Quality
  • How much fluid is consumed each day?
  • How much urine is produced each day?
  • What color is the urine?
• Aggravating factors
  • Has there been fever?
  • Has there been diarrhea?
  • Has there been vomiting? With or without nausea?
  • Is thirst decreased?
• Other
  • Does increasing fluid intake increase urine output?
  • What other symptoms do you have?
  • What medications do you take?
  • Do you have any allergies?
  • Do you have access to adequate fluids?
• Past history
  • Have you had any recent injuries such as burns?
  • Have you been sick?
  • Do you have a previous problem with the kidneys or bladder?

Tests that may be done include:

• Blood studies to monitor electrolytes and renal function
• CT (cat) scan of the abdomen
• Intravenous pyelogram (IVP)
• Renal scan
• Abdominal ultrasound
• Urine tests, including tests for infection

Goldman L, Ausiello D. Cecil Textbook of Medicine. 22nd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: WB Saunders; 2004.

Wein AJ. Campbell-Walsh Urology. 9th ed. St. Louis, Mo: WB Saunders; 2007.