Q: I take very little water every day, i.e., only a litre a day. I don't feel thirsty after that. Every time I drink a glass of water, I have to urinate after half an hour. What could be the reason? My wife says it is a case of weak bladder. Please advise.

A:It is not only the water but also all liquids including tea and drinks that provide water to the body. All solids have water content too. The important thing is how much urine you make in a day, and not how much water you drink. The minimum urine output that can take care of body needs is about 750 ml, seen in extremely dry conditions. Ideal output would be approximately 1.5 to 2.5 litres in 24 hours. Measure your 24 hours urine output over 24 hours and you may be surprised to find your urine output as adequate. Another important thing is to know that everybody goes and passes urine after a liquid binge. Again, the important thing would be to know how many times you pass urine in a day. It may again be facilitated by making your 24-hour urine chart, and measuring urine output at each void. Your doubts may then be put at rest.