My 10-month-old baby has not passed urine for the last 12 hours and is now crying continuously. What could be the cause, and does this require urgent medical attention?
A 10-month-old baby not passing urine for 12 hours, especially along with continuous crying, should be taken seriously and needs urgent medical evaluation. This can sometimes happen due to dehydration from poor feeding, vomiting, diarrhoea, fever, or excessive sweating, but it may also be related to a urinary infection, blockage in the urinary tract, kidney problems, or severe illness causing reduced urine production. Continuous crying may indicate pain, discomfort, or dehydration. Check whether the baby is feeding properly, has a dry mouth, sunken eyes, fever, vomiting, swelling, or unusual sleepiness, as these can be warning signs. Offer breast milk, formula, or fluids if the baby is able to drink, but do not delay medical care waiting for improvement at home. Since babies can become dehydrated quickly, it is important to take your child to a paediatrician or emergency department as soon as possible for examination and possible urine and blood tests. Immediate medical attention is especially important if the baby becomes very sleepy, develops a fever, has abdominal swelling, or still does not pass urine.