My Toddler Is Not Urinating As Much With a Fever

Any toddler can experience a decrease in urination, especially if suffering from a high temperature. Symptoms can be caused by many conditions, some potentially serious. This makes it pertinent to understand what can trigger a fever and a decrease in urination -- and when you should contact a pediatrician.

Many conditions can trigger a decrease in urination and fever. (Image: Milenko Bokan/iStock/Getty Images)

Symptoms and Definition

According to the MedlinePlus website, your child is experiencing a decrease in urine if he urinates less than 500 mL in a 24-hour period. Besides a fever, note if your toddler is also experiencing an increase in the perceived need to urinate, a burning or stinging when he pees, pain in the lower back, splotchy skin on the hands and feet, cold extremities, abdominal discomfort, excessive sleeping, dizziness or urine that appears bloody or cloudy.

Possible Causes

If your child has a fever, he can become dehydrated if he does not replenish the fluids lost through sweating, which can trigger a decrease in urination. A fever and lack of urination can also be a sign of a urinary tract obstruction or an infection of the kidneys or urinary tract. Some medications, like diuretics or anticholinergics can also trigger a decrease in urination and a high temperature.

Treatment Options

You can treat your child's mild symptoms at home by replenishing her fluids and salt with a drink that contains electrolytes, available at most drug stores and grocery stores. Give him the recommended dosage of children's ibuprofen or acetaminophen to help ease discomfort. Contact a doctor if your toddler's symptoms are severe or last for longer than 24 hours. A urinary tract or kidney infection may need to be treated with antibiotics. If your child is severely dehydrated, he may need to have his fluids replenished through an IV.

Prevention

Prevent symptoms by giving your child a variety of fluids when he has a fever or it's hot outside, such as ice water, freezer pops and soup. Do not let your child get overheated, which can lead to fluid loss. Air out stuffy rooms, run an air conditioner, and dress your child in a light layer of clothing when it is hot. Change your toddler's diaper or training pants frequently to prevent bacteria from building up and spreading to the urinary tract and kidneys.