Oliguria (patient information)

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Editors-in-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. Associate Editor-In-Chief: Ujjwal Rastogi, MBBS [mailto:urastogi@perfuse.org]

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

What causes Oliguria?

 * Dehydration due to vomiting, diarrhea, or fever, with a lack of adequate fluid intake
 * Total urinary tract obstruction, such as from an enlarged prostate
 * Severe infection or any other medical condition leading to shock
 * Use of certain medications such as anticholinergics, methotrexate, and diuretics

Who is at highest risk?
Patient having any of the conditions mentioned in the causes are at risk of oliguria.

When to seek urgent medical care?
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

Diagnosis
The health care provider 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 do you drink each day?
 * Does drinking more increase your urine output?
 * How much urine do you produce 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?
 * What other symptoms do you have?
 * Other
 * What medications do you take?
 * Do you have any allergies?
 * Do you have access to adequate fluids?
 * Medical history
 * Have you had any recent injuries such as burns?
 * Have you been sick?
 * Do you have a history of a problem with your kidneys or bladder?

Tests that may be done include:


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

Treatment options
It mainly depends on the cause

Home Care

Follow prescribed fluid regimens and measure urine output as directed.

Where to find medical care for Oliguria?
Directions to Hospitals Treating Acute tubular necrosis

What to expect (Outlook/Prognosis)?
Prognosis depends on the cause of oliguria.

Possible complications
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.

Prevention
prevention depends on the underlying cause.