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I haven't gone to the bathroom at all in about 20 hours, should I be concerned?

By September 3, 2013 - 1:55pm
 
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I wasn't going normal for a week or 2... i wouldn't go for 12-16 hours at a time. So eventually I just decided that there was no point in drinking the recommended amount so I drank about 16 fluid ounces a day for a few days. But this weekend I went back to drinking normally when ever I wanted. I always kind of had this thing where I think water makes me gain weight but this is not the case here. I also ran about half a mile today so I'm not sure if this is even something to worry about. Going to the emergency room is not an option for me I don't want to tell my parents what's going on. I really don't think it's a big deal but it's better to be safe than sorry, when I was younger I had the complete opposite I was always told I had a weak bladder so I don't know.

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It's dark yellow and sometimes a little orange... I ended up going last night but I'm going through the same thing today, so far it's been 18 hours. And I'm 15, I told my parents they weren't very concerned.

September 4, 2013 - 11:42am
Guide (reply to EDfighter1998)

Hi EDfighter1998,

Normally, urine is very light to light yellow in color. Dark yellow to a little orange indicated concentrated urine. Concentrated urine indicates dehydration or a problem with the kidneys.

If you are drinking at least six 8 ounces glasses of fluids, either water or juice, each day and are having low urine output along with concentrated urine, something is very wrong.

You need to be examined by your pediatrician. I wish I could speak with your parents and urge them to call the doctor. Can you visit the school nurse? If you feel comfortable, speak with her. She may be able to do a quick urine dip stick test or contact your parents.

Maryann

September 4, 2013 - 5:28pm
Guide

Hello EDfighter1998,

How old are you?
When you do urinate, what color is the urine? Is it dark yellow to almost orange/brown?

Dehydration is one cause of low urine output. Not drinking enough water during hot weather or exercise may cause dehydration. You can usually reverse mild to moderate dehydration by drinking more fluids. But, if this was the cause, you would be having other symptoms like a dry, sticky mouth, feeling sleepy or tired, thirst, headache, and constipation.

I am concerned that there might be a more serious problem, since this has been going on for more than one week.

A urinary tract obstruction may be the problem. The blockage occurs when urine cannot leave your kidneys. This can affect one or both kidneys and usually results in a decreased urine output.

You need to seek medical attention right away. Are you old enough to go to the emergency room or contact your physician without your parent's consent or insurance coverage?

You cannot ignore this. Please tell your parents. As a mother of three young adult children, I would want to know and would help if one of them was having such a problem.

Maryann

September 3, 2013 - 4:33pm
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