This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized guidance and treatment.

What does urine colour indicate?

Urine color primarily reflects hydration and the concentration of pigment called urochrome. Pale or straw-colored urine usually indicates adequate hydration, while darker yellow or amber suggests mild to moderate dehydration. Diet and supplements (for example, B vitamins) can temporarily change urine color without indicating disease. Color alone rarely provides a definitive diagnosis, but it helps guide whether further medical or laboratory evaluation is appropriate.

How does urine reflect kidney function?

The kidneys filter waste, balance fluids, and contribute to urine composition. Some kidney problems alter urine appearance: persistent dark or brown urine might reflect bilirubin from liver or advanced kidney issues, and foamy urine can result from proteinuria, a sign of impaired kidney filtration. That said, urine color is an indirect marker; laboratory tests such as serum creatinine, estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), and urinalysis are needed to assess kidney function accurately.

When is urine colour a health concern?

Seek medical attention if urine changes are sudden, persistent, or accompanied by symptoms like pain, fever, swelling, or reduced urine output. Red or pink urine may signal blood (hematuria) from the urinary tract, stones, infection, or less commonly, kidney disease. Cloudy urine with odor, along with urinary urgency or burning, often indicates infection. Very dark brown or tea-colored urine can reflect severe dehydration, liver dysfunction, or certain medications. Because several causes overlap, a medical evaluation helps determine the reason and appropriate treatment.

How do medical tests check urine?

Medical evaluation commonly begins with a urinalysis, including a dipstick test for blood, protein, glucose, and nitrites, followed by microscopic examination for cells, crystals, or bacteria. A urine culture is used when infection is suspected. For suspected kidney disease, tests may include urine protein quantification (albumin-to-creatinine ratio) and blood tests for renal function. Imaging such as ultrasound or CT can evaluate structural causes like stones. Local services and primary care providers can arrange these tests or refer to specialists when needed.

Can protein affect urine colour?

Protein itself is usually colorless and does not directly change urine color, but significant proteinuria can produce foamy or frothy urine, which patients may notice. Causes of proteinuria include kidney disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, and temporary conditions such as exercise or fever. Dipstick tests detect protein presence but are semi-quantitative; persistent protein on repeat testing typically prompts quantitative measurements and further evaluation to determine the cause and potential impact on kidney health.

Conclusion

A urine colour chart is a practical tool to help monitor hydration and identify potential warning signs, but it is not a substitute for medical testing. Many color changes are benign and linked to food, supplements, or temporary dehydration. Persistent or troubling changes—especially when accompanied by pain, fever, or reduced urine output—should prompt a clinical assessment including urinalysis and possibly kidney function tests. Accurate diagnosis relies on combining visual assessment with laboratory and clinical information.