Explained: Yellow, Red Or Pink: What Your Urine Colour Says Lot About Your Health

The urinary tract plays an important role in the human body as it is responsible for filtering wastes and extra fluid from the bloodstream. Urine is a part of the metabolic process and is seen as an important indicator of underlying health problems. Typically, the colour of urine in a healthy person is mildly yellow with a slight odour.

However, if there is a change in its colour or odour there is a possibility of a liver or bile duct condition that needs immediate medical attention. In certain cases, consuming certain vegetables like beetroot or medications can also cause the urine to change colour.

Some of the causes of change in the colour of urine include an enlarged prostate, a urinary tract infection, tumours that aren't cancer, kidney stones, and cysts. Different colours of urine and their implications on your health include:

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Dark yellow urine

If the colour of the urine is dark yellow, it is an indication of dehydration. When the body is dehydrated, urine becomes concentrated, and the yellow colour intensifies. Dehydration can cause fatigue, headaches and can also lead to kidney stones. It is important to increase fluid intake to restore hydration levels and maintain healthy urine.

Red or pink urine

This change in colour can be an alarming sign of an underlying medical condition. The presence of blood in the urine can indicate medical conditions, such as urinary tract infections, kidney stones, or bladder cancer. If you notice red or pink urine, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. However, in women, menstrual blood can sometimes mix with urine, causing the urine to appear red or pink .

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Orange urine

Some people may also notice their urine turning orange in colour. It can be due to dehydration or a liver problem. Orange urine can also be caused by the intake of certain medications. If the orange urine persists even after hydration or cessation of medication, it is important to consult a doctor.

Green or blue urine

This change of colour in the urine is rare but can be a sign of a rare genetic disorder called familial hypercalcemia. Another common cause of green or blue urine is the intake of food dyes.

Brown urine

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This can be a sign of a liver problem or a muscle injury. The presence of blood in the urine can also cause it to appear brown.

Although, it is impossible to evade the risk of some of the health problems that may lead to change in colour of urine, lifestyle also plays an important role in keeping the urinary tract healthy.

It is recommended to drink enough water and stay hydrated throughout the day. Additionally, it is also important to maintain a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. These foods are not only nutrient-dense but also contain high amounts of water and can help maintain hydration levels. At the same time, regular exercise can promote the kidney function. In case, if one notices a sudden and frequent change in the colour of urine, it is also recommended to consult a doctor.

About the author: Dr Rajeev Gupta is the Director- Internal Medicine at the CK Birla Hospital, Delhi. All views/opinions expressed in the article are of the author.