What Colour Urine is Bad?
Very dark or red urine is a serious sign and requires immediate medical attention. This could indicate blood in the urine, potentially stemming from bleeding in the bladder or kidneys. Other concerning colors include dark red/brown. While pale yellow to gold is generally considered normal, a darker yellow hue might simply mean you need to drink more fluids. However, any significant or sudden change in urine color warrants a consultation with a doctor.
Urine color is influenced by several factors, including hydration levels and diet. While a pale yellow to amber color is usually normal, variations can signal underlying health issues.
Concerning Urine Colors and Their Potential Causes:
- Very dark or red urine: This often points to blood in the urine (hematuria), which requires urgent medical evaluation. It may be caused by kidney or bladder issues, including infections or stones. (Source: If the urine is very dark or red, this may because of blood in the urine. Notify the patient's GP immediately. Urine may turn Pink or orange. Dark red/brown coloured urine could be due to bleeding in bladder or kidneys – seek medical advice.)
- Dark amber or brown urine: This could also indicate dehydration or liver problems. (Source: Dark yellow urine can be normal, but it might mean you need more fluids. When your urine appears as a darker shade of yellow, or even brown…)
- Cloudy urine: This often suggests a urinary tract infection (UTI). (Source: Cloudy or milky urine is a sign of a urinary tract infection.)
Normal Urine Color Range:
Most healthy individuals experience urine ranging from pale yellow to a deeper amber shade. The color is primarily due to a pigment called urochrome. (Source: If everything is normal and healthy, the color should be a pale yellow to gold. That hue comes from a pigment your body makes called urochrome.) Variations in color intensity often reflect hydration levels; darker yellow typically indicates dehydration, while pale yellow suggests adequate fluid intake. (Source: Slightly darker yellow urine can indicate that you need to drink more water. Drink a glass of water now. 5 to 6: Dehydrated. Medium-dark yellow…)
When to Seek Medical Attention:
Consult a doctor if you notice:
- A sudden or persistent change in urine color.
- Urine that is dark red, brown, or contains blood.
- Cloudy or unusually foul-smelling urine.
- Pain or discomfort during urination.
It's crucial to remember that diet can affect urine color temporarily. Foods like beets or certain medications can cause temporary changes. However, any persistent or concerning color change necessitates medical attention. (Source: Foods such as beets, blackberries and fava beans can turn urine…)
