Regulation of Urine Volume and Fluid Balance

Question 1

What are the terms for too high and too low blood volume?

Answer 1

Hopervolaemia (fluid overload) and Hypovolaemia (dehydrated).

Question 2

List some symptoms and signs of hypovolaemia.

Answer 2

1. Thirst
2. Dizziness on standing
3. Confusion
4. Low JVP
5. Postural hypotension
6. Weight loss
7. Dry mucous membranes
8. Reduced skin turgor
9. Reduced urine output

Question 3

List some symptoms and signs of hypervolaemia.

Answer 3

1. Ankle swelling
2. Breathlessness
3. Raised JVP
4. Oedema
5. Weight gain
6. Hypertension

Question 4

What is the minimum amount of urine that the kidneys need to get rid of in a day?

Answer 4

Approximately 600 mOsm/day.