Decreased Urine Output in a Five-Month-Old Baby

Q: Decreased Urine Output in a Five-Month-Old Baby

Hello： According to statistics, 20% of newborns have varying degrees of hydronephrosis. <br>If it is mild hydronephrosis, ultrasound examinations can be performed every three to six months. <br>The normal urine output for children is 1-4 cc/kg/hr, and it is advisable to observe f

The urine output of a five-month-old baby has decreased?

Doctor, is this related to the kidneys? 1.
The baby is almost six months old.
2.
There was a diagnosis of hydronephrosis at birth, but during the three-month check-up, the doctor said it had not increased in size and that we could continue to monitor it.
3.
Recently, I noticed that the baby's urine output has decreased; there was one occasion where from 9 AM to 8 PM, the diaper was hardly wet.
4.
The baby currently weighs 9 kg, eats five meals a day, with an average of 150 cc per meal, and drinks about 100 cc of water a day.
Thank you for your response!

D., 0~9 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/08/18

Dr. Pei Rensheng reply Pediatrics

Hello: According to statistics, 20% of newborns have varying degrees of hydronephrosis.
If it is mild hydronephrosis, ultrasound examinations can be performed every three to six months.
The normal urine output for children is 1-4 cc/kg/hr, and it is advisable to observe for a period of time (such as one day) for more accurate assessment.
The normal intake is 100-150 cc or grams/kg/day, for your reference.
If a child is dehydrated, in addition to decreased urine output, there may also be signs such as dry mucous membranes, sunken fontanelle, or increased heart rate.
Of course, it is also recommended to consult a pediatrician to evaluate for dehydration.
Sincerely, Pei Ren-Sheng.

Reply Date: 2006/08/18

More Info

When it comes to decreased urine output in a five-month-old baby, there are several factors to consider, especially given the context of your baby's medical history, including the presence of hydronephrosis at birth. Hydronephrosis is a condition characterized by the swelling of a kidney due to a build-up of urine, which can sometimes resolve on its own but may also require monitoring and intervention depending on the severity and underlying cause.

1. Understanding Normal Urine Output: For infants, normal urine output can vary, but generally, a well-hydrated baby should have about 6 to 8 wet diapers per day. A significant decrease in urine output, such as having a dry diaper for an extended period (like from 9 AM to 8 PM), is concerning and warrants further investigation.

2. Potential Causes of Decreased Urine Output:
- Dehydration: This can occur if the baby is not getting enough fluids, either from formula or breast milk. Given that your baby is consuming approximately 150 cc per feeding and an additional 100 cc of water daily, it’s essential to ensure that these amounts are adequate for their age and weight. At nine kilograms, the baby should be receiving enough fluids, but factors like heat, illness, or increased activity can lead to higher fluid needs.

- Renal Issues: Since your baby has a history of hydronephrosis, it’s crucial to monitor kidney function closely. While the condition may not have worsened, any changes in urine output could indicate a potential issue with kidney function or obstruction.

- Infection: Urinary tract infections (UTIs) can also lead to decreased urine output. Symptoms may include irritability, fever, or changes in feeding patterns. If you notice any of these signs, it’s essential to consult a pediatrician.

3. Monitoring and Next Steps: Given the decrease in urine output, it’s advisable to:
- Keep a Diary: Track the number of wet diapers and any other symptoms (like fever, irritability, or changes in feeding) over the next few days.

- Hydration Assessment: Ensure that your baby is adequately hydrated. If you suspect dehydration, you might consider offering more fluids, but always consult your pediatrician first.

- Consult a Pediatrician: Given the history of hydronephrosis and the current concerns about urine output, it’s crucial to consult your pediatrician. They may recommend a urine analysis or an ultrasound to assess kidney function and rule out any complications.

4. When to Seek Immediate Care: If your baby shows signs of severe dehydration (such as a dry mouth, lethargy, or no urine output for more than 12 hours), or if there are any other concerning symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.

In summary, while decreased urine output can be related to several factors, including hydration status and renal health, it is essential to monitor your baby closely and consult with a healthcare professional to ensure that any potential issues are addressed promptly. Regular follow-ups with your pediatrician, especially considering your baby's medical history, are critical in managing their health effectively.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Reduced Urine Output in Infants with Renal Dysplasia

Hello Doctor: My baby is eight months old and has a condition of polycystic renal dysplasia. Two weeks ago, due to a cold, he took some cold medications. During the medication period, I noticed a significant decrease in urination. It has now been three days since he stopped takin...

Dr. Xiao Kaiwen reply Pediatrics
Dear Angugu Mommy: I am not sure which form of cystic dysplasia your baby has, as the renal function and prognosis can vary significantly among different forms of cystic dysplasia. Some forms may also present with extrarenal symptoms (such as liver fibrosis and hypertension), so ...

Understanding Decreased Urine Output in Infants: Causes and Concerns

My daughter just turned one year old, and I'm not sure if it's because the weather suddenly got hotter and she's sweating more, but her urine output has become extremely low. There have been times when she hasn't urinated for 4-5 hours, and her total urine out...

Dr. Chen Rongtai reply Pediatrics
Recently, the weather has been getting hotter, and I received a letter mentioning the issue of decreased urine output in children. This can generally be considered from two aspects: insufficient intake or difficulty in output. I wonder if your baby has symptoms such as dry mouth,...

Concerns About Low Urine Output in Breastfed Infants: What Parents Should Know

My baby boy is almost 11 months old, currently breastfed, weighing 10 kg and measuring 75 cm, all within the growth curve standards. He is very active and alert, but he completely refuses to drink water, resulting in very little urine output. However, he sweats a lot when crying ...

Dr. Pei Rensheng reply Pediatrics
Dear Mother He, Hello. Crying can lead to sweating and tearing up, which is likely a key factor. Under normal circumstances, urine accounts for half of the body's fluid loss, while the other half is lost through respiration, sweating, and feces. If sweating increases signif...

Understanding Urine Output in Infants: Concerns for Parents

Hello, I would like to ask about my child who has been suffering from a cold for two weeks without improvement. Yesterday, we visited the doctor and received a bottle of expectorant (100ml, white plastic bottle, green transparent liquid) that indicates it "may cause drowsine...

Dr. He Shenglong reply Pediatrics
Hello: A five-month-old exclusively breastfed baby not urinating for most of the night may be due to increased sweating or not being fed during the night. It’s advisable to monitor the situation; if there is no urination throughout the entire day, a visit to the doctor is recomme...