Why is there less urination despite drinking more water?

Jul 19, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

I basically drink a lot of water every day, but my urine output is very low. I don't go to the bathroom very often. I'd like to ask what could be causing this?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Drinking more water but producing less urine may have the following possible causes: 1. Dehydration: Although your water intake increases, if your body is dehydrated—for example, due to a hot environment, vigorous exercise, or excessive sweating—fluids may be retained in the body to maintain the function of vital organs, leading to reduced urine output. 2. Kidney problems: Abnormal kidney function, such as nephritis, nephrotic syndrome, or chronic kidney failure, may increase the reabsorption of water by the kidneys, thereby reducing urine excretion. 3. Diabetes: High blood sugar levels can increase sugar in the urine, causing osmotic diuresis, which results in increased urine output. However, if diabetes is uncontrolled, kidney damage may occur in later stages, leading to reduced urine output instead. 4. Medication effects: Certain medications, such as diuretics, antidepressants, or some pain relievers, can affect urine production or cause urinary retention. 5. Urinary tract obstruction: Conditions such as stones, tumors, or other obstructive lesions may hinder the normal excretion of urine, resulting in decreased urine output.