Decreased urine output

Decreased urine output, also known as Oliguria, is a medical condition characterized by the production of less urine than normal. It is often associated with various health issues, including dehydration, kidney disease, and certain medications.

Definition

Oliguria is medically defined as a urine output of less than 400 milliliters, which is less than about 13.5 ounces, over the course of 24 hours. The decreased urine output can be a symptom of a variety of health conditions, and it is often one of the first signs of kidney disease.

Causes

Decreased urine output can be caused by a variety of factors. These include:

• Dehydration: This is the most common cause of decreased urine output. When the body is dehydrated, it tries to conserve water by producing less urine.
• Kidney disease: Kidney disease can cause decreased urine output because the kidneys are not functioning properly and are unable to filter waste and excess fluids from the blood.
• Medications: Certain medications, such as diuretics, can cause decreased urine output.
• Heart failure: Heart failure can cause decreased urine output because the heart is unable to pump enough blood to the kidneys, which can lead to fluid retention and decreased urine output.
• Urinary tract obstruction: An obstruction in the urinary tract, such as a kidney stone, can cause decreased urine output.

Symptoms

In addition to decreased urine output, other symptoms may also be present. These can include:

• Thirst: An increased thirst can be a sign of dehydration, which can cause decreased urine output.
• Swelling: Swelling in the legs, ankles, and feet can be a sign of fluid retention, which can be caused by heart failure or kidney disease.
• Fatigue: Fatigue can be a symptom of kidney disease or heart failure, both of which can cause decreased urine output.

Treatment

Treatment for decreased urine output depends on the underlying cause. This can include:

• Rehydration: If dehydration is the cause, rehydration with fluids and electrolytes is the first step in treatment.
• Medication: If a certain medication is the cause, the medication may need to be adjusted or changed.
• Dialysis: If kidney disease is the cause, dialysis may be necessary to filter waste and excess fluids from the blood.

See also

• Anuria
• Polyuria
• Urinary retention