Urination, excessive volume

Alternative names:

polyuria

Definition:

The release of abnormally large amounts (at least 2.5 liters per day) of urine.

Considerations:

This is a fairly common symptom which is often noticed when it occurs at night.

Common causes:

• too much fluid intake, particularly fluids containing caffeine or alcohol
• too much salt or glucose (if diabetic)
• drug use, especially diuretics
• diabetes (both diabetes insipidus and diabetes mellitus)
• psychogenic polydipsia, most common in women over age 30
• renal failure
• sickle cell anemia
• radiographic tests that use a contrast media
  • urine volume will increase for up to 24 hours following the dose

Note: There may be other causes of polyuria. This list is not all inclusive, and the causes are not presented in order of likelihood. The causes of this symptom can include unlikely diseases and medications. Furthermore, the causes may vary based on age and gender of the affected person, as well as on the specific characteristics of the symptom such as time course, aggravating factors, relieving factors, and associated complaints. Use the Symptom Analysis option to explore the possible explanations for polyuria, occurring alone or in combination with other problems.