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Urology  (Expert Forum)
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233190?1193370436
Infrequent discharge of large quantities of urine in short intervals
Answered by
Kevin Pho, MD - Internal Medicine
Kevin Pho, MD Boston - MA
Questions in the Urology forum are answered by Dr. Stephen Liroff, affiliated with the Henry Ford Hospital. Topics covered include benign prostate disease, penis curvature, cystisis, kidney stones, pediatric urology, prostate, sexual dysfunction, urinary tract infections (UTI), and urological cancers.

Infrequent discharge of large quantities of urine in short intervals

by laus, Oct 18, 2005 12:00AM
Following an accident when I was paralyzed from the waist down I now have to use a catheter to urinate.  However the condition for which I require an answer was there before the accident.

The condition of concern happens infrequently, several times a week or as far apart as two or three weeks.

While intake of liquid is normal, without any apparent cause I experience two or three large quantity discharges in short intervals (1 to 1.5 hours).  The quantity is equal to the maximum my bladder can hold, about 400cc.  It is usually very light in colour, sometimes like water.  Often during this period I become very thirsty.  It seems almost like a diuretic condition.  I have been unable to observe any change in what I eat or drink. In general I use very little sugar or refined carbohydrates, no coffee or chocolate and only a glass of wine with the main meal.

I question if this is an indication of a general health problem.

I am always quite tired.  Could it be a thyroid or diabetic problem?

by Kevin Pho, MD, Oct 18, 2005 12:00AM
Metabolic disease like diabetes or thyroid disorders are certainly possible.  They can be tested for with various blood tests.



You can also consider any urinary tract infection - which can exacerbate urinary frequency.  Sending the urine off for analysis and culture can be done to evaluate this.  



I would also obtain a metabolic panel to evaluate the electrolytes and kidney function.  If there are fluctuations in the sodium level, this can affect the thirst mechanism, and point to possible diseases where this is altered.



These options can be discussed with your personal physician.



Followup with your personal physician is essential.



This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.



Kevin, M.D.

http://www.straightfromthedoc.com
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