10 Conditions Your Urine Can Tell About Your Health
Your urine can reveal a lot about what’s happening inside your body. Changes in urine color, smell, amount, or appearance may be early signs of medical conditions that should not be ignored. Paying attention to these signs and getting proper tests can help detect health problems early.
Here are 10 health conditions your urine can tell you about.
1. Dehydration
Dark yellow or amber-colored urine often means you’re not drinking enough water. In Lagos’ hot climate, dehydration is very common and can lead to fatigue, headaches, and kidney problems if untreated.
2. Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)
Cloudy urine, a strong unpleasant smell, pain during urination, or frequent urges to urinate may indicate a UTI. UTIs are common in both men and women and require prompt treatment.
3. Kidney Disease
Persistent foamy urine, swelling of the legs or face, and changes in urine volume may be signs of kidney problems. Early detection through urine and blood tests is crucial. Detectable protein or blood in urine can point towards kidney problems.
4. Diabetes
Sweet-smelling urine or increased urine volume, especially with excessive thirst and weight loss, may suggest diabetes. Urine glucose testing can provide an early warning.
5. Liver Disease
Very dark urine (cola-colored) with pale stools or yellowing of the eyes and skin may indicate liver problems such as hepatitis or bile obstruction. Presence of bilirubiin or excessive urobilinogen in urine can be due to liver problems.
6. Blood in the Urine (Hematuria)
Pink, red, or brown urine can be caused by kidney stones, infections, prostate problems, or more serious conditions. Blood in urine should always be evaluated by a doctor.
7. Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)
Discharge mixed with urine, burning sensation, or foul smell may point to STIs such as gonorrhea or chlamydia. Urine testing is often used for screening and diagnosis.
8. Prostate Conditions
In men, frequent urination at night, weak urine stream, or difficulty starting urination may indicate prostate enlargement or inflammation.
9. Pregnancy
Urine pregnancy tests detect the hormone hCG and are often the first confirmation of pregnancy. Delayed periods and early pregnancy symptoms usually prompt urine testing.
10. Medication or Diet Effects
Some foods, vitamins, and medications can change urine color or smell. While often harmless, persistent changes should still be discussed with a healthcare provider.
When to See a Doctor
You should seek medical attention if you notice:
- Blood in your urine
- Persistent pain or burning during urination
- Very dark or foamy urine
- Sudden changes in urine frequency or volume
Urine tests are simple, affordable, and provide valuable information about your health.
How Mascot Healthcare Can Help
At Mascot Healthcare Clinic, Akoka, we offer:
- Urinalysis and urine culture
- Diabetes and kidney screening
- STI testing
- Doctor consultation and treatment
Early testing can prevent complications and protect your long-term health.
Book a Visit Today
If you’ve noticed unusual changes in your urine, don’t ignore them. Visit Mascot Healthcare Clinic, Akoka, Lagos, for professional evaluation and care.
Your health starts with early detection.