World Kidney Day 2025: What Your Urine Can Reveal About Your Kidney Health – Doctor Explains
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Every year, on the second Thursday of March, World Kidney Day is observed to raise awareness about various kidney-related ailments and urge people to take preventive measures to stay healthy and fit. As we observe World Kidney Day today (March 13), it is essential to understand how to spot the first signs of kidney disorders.
Kidney health experts suggest that understanding your urine can help in detecting the early signs of kidney disease. Dr. Avinash Srivastava, senior director – urology and kidney transplant, Livasa Hospitals, explains that "Your urine can impart important information about the state of your kidneys. Because the kidneys filter waste and excess fluids from your blood, anything abnormal in your urine can signal potential problems. Identifying these signs allows you to take early action to prevent kidney damage."
Key Highlights:
- Your urine color, odour, and frequency can reveal a lot about your kidney health.
- A light yellow or yellow urine color indicates good hydration, while a dark yellow or amber color may suggest dehydrated or liver problems.
- A strong ammonia smell can indicate dehydration or a urinary tract infection (UTI), while a sweet or fruity odor may indicate diabetes or high blood sugar.
- Frequent urination, especially at night, can be a sign of early kidney problems or inadequate control of diabetes.
- Lower urine output may indicate blockages, damage to the kidneys, or dehydration.
Urine Color and Its Meaning:
- Light yellow or yellow: Good hydration
- Dark yellow or amber: Dehydration or liver problems
- Brown or cola-coloured: Severe dehydration or potential kidney disease
- Red or pink: Blood in the urine (hematuria) can indicate bladder or kidney stones, infection, or more serious conditions
Urine Odor and Its Meaning:
- Strong ammonia smell: Dehydration or UTI
- Sweet or fruity odor: Diabetes or high blood sugar
Urine Clarity and Its Meaning:
- Clear urine: Good hydration
- Cloudy or foamy urine: Excess protein or possible kidney dysfunction
Urine Frequency and Volume:
- Frequent urination, especially at night: Early kidney problems or inadequate control of diabetes
- Lower urine output: Blockages, damage to the kidneys, or dehydration
Presence of Pain or Discomfort:
- Burning sensation: Kidney stones, infection, or inflammation
- Pain during urination or lower back pain: Kidney stones, infection, or inflammation
When to Seek Medical Help:
If you notice persistent changes in urine color, smell, or frequency, consult a healthcare provider. Dr. Avinash Srivastava emphasizes the importance of adequate hydration, a balanced diet, and routine examinations for maintaining good kidney health.
Note to Readers:
This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.