Why is My Toilet Urine Cloudy?
Cloudy urine, instead of its usual clear or light yellow color, is often caused by a discharge of pus or blood into the urinary tract. This can also be due to a high concentration of white blood cells fighting off an infection. Several factors can contribute to this:
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Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): UTIs are a very common cause of cloudy urine. The cloudiness is often due to the presence of white blood cells your body sends to fight the infection. [Source: Cleveland Clinic, WebMD, Medical News Today, Prevention]
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High Alkaline Levels: A high level of alkaline substances in the urine can make it appear cloudy. [Source: Cleveland Clinic]
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Dehydration: Concentrated urine due to dehydration can sometimes appear cloudy. [Source: Health.com]
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Kidney Stones: Kidney stones can cause cloudy urine as they pass through the urinary tract. [Source: Urology Specialists of the Carolinas]
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High-Purine Diet: A diet high in purines can lead to cloudy urine. [Source: Health.com]
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Other Infections: Other infections affecting the urinary system can also result in cloudy urine.
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Medications: Some medications can affect urine appearance.
What Cloudy Urine Looks Like
Cloudy urine can appear milky or hazy, instead of its normal clear or pale yellow color. [Source: Cleveland Clinic, Health.com] The degree of cloudiness can vary.
When to Seek Medical Attention
While sometimes cloudy urine is harmless (like due to dehydration), it's important to consult a doctor if the cloudiness persists, is accompanied by other symptoms (pain, burning during urination, fever, foul odor), or if you are concerned. Cloudy urine can be an indicator of a serious underlying condition like a UTI or kidney infection. [Source: WebMD, Mayo Clinic]
It's important to note that urine that is cloudy after it sits in the toilet may simply be due to contact with bacteria, dust, or toilet bowl chemicals. [Source: Reddit]
