Urine colour and kidney problems: Signs you shouldn't ignore

The colour of your urine can provide important clues about your overall health, particularly your kidney function . Healthy kidneys filter waste and excess fluids from the blood, producing urine that is typically light yellow to amber in colour. However, when the kidneys begin to fail, noticeable changes in urine colour and consistency may occur. Dark, foamy, red, or cloudy urine can signal underlying kidney problems such as chronic kidney disease or acute kidney injury. Monitoring urine changes is a simple yet effective way to detect early warning signs of kidney failure and seek timely medical attention to prevent further damage.



Understanding kidney function and urine colour
Healthy kidneys filter blood, remove waste, and create urine to expel toxins. They also regulate water balance, electrolytes, and blood pressure. When your kidneys are functioning properly, your urine is usually light yellow to amber in color, depending on hydration levels.

However, when kidneys are compromised, toxins can build up, and urine may change in color, odor, volume, and foaminess.



What colour is urine when your kidneys are failing
1. Dark brown or cola-coloured urine

One of the most common urine changes in kidney failure is a dark brown, tea-colored, or cola-colored appearance. This may occur due to the presence of:

• Blood in the urine (hematuria)
• Excess muscle breakdown products (myoglobin)
• Concentrated waste due to reduced kidney function
• This color change is often seen in both acute and chronic kidney failure.

2. Red or pink urine

Red or pink urine may signal blood in the urine, a condition known as hematuria. This can occur when the kidneys' filtering units (glomeruli) become damaged.

Possible causes include:

• Glomerulonephritis
• Polycystic kidney disease
• Kidney infections or injury

Note: While red urine can also result from foods like beets, persistent discoloration should be medically evaluated.


3. Foamy or bubbly urine

Foamy urine can indicate the presence of excess protein, especially albumin. This is often one of the earliest signs of chronic kidney disease (CKD).

Foam or bubbles in the toilet bowl after urination may suggest:

• Proteinuria (protein in urine)
• Early kidney damage
• High blood pressure-related kidney stress
• This symptom should not be ignored, particularly if persistent.

4. Cloudy or murky urine

Cloudy urine can be associated with:

• Urinary tract infections
• Kidney stones
• Kidney inflammation (nephritis)

It may also come with a foul odor or discomfort during urination. Though not always linked to kidney failure, cloudy urine may signal an underlying condition that can damage kidneys if left untreated.


5. Pale or colourless urine

Extremely clear or colorless urine often means you are well-hydrated. However, consistently pale urine may indicate overhydration or inability of the kidneys to concentrate urine, which could be a sign of:

• Diabetes insipidus
• Chronic kidney disease in its advanced stage

While not a direct sign of kidney failure, it may require further investigation if accompanied by other symptoms.



Other symptoms of kidney failure to watch for
Urine color is just one of many signs that could point to kidney dysfunction. Other key symptoms include:

• Swelling in the legs, ankles, or feet (edema)
• Fatigue or weakness
• Nausea and vomiting
• Shortness of breath
• Persistent itching
• Metallic taste in the mouth
• Difficulty concentrating
• Decreased urine output

If any of these are present along with unusual urine color, consult a healthcare provider immediately.



What causes urine colour changes in kidney failure
Urine colour changes occur due to the kidneys' reduced ability to filter and eliminate waste effectively. Common causes include:

• Chronic kidney disease (CKD)
• Acute kidney injury (AKI)
• Glomerulonephritis
• Diabetes-related nephropathy
• Hypertension
• Urinary tract infections
• Kidney stones

Proper diagnosis and treatment of the underlying cause are essential to preserving kidney function.


When to see a doctor about urine colour
Seek medical attention if you notice:

• Sudden and unexplained changes in urine color
• Persistent dark or red urine
• Foamy urine lasting more than a few days
• Pain or discomfort during urination
• Swelling or other symptoms of kidney stress

How to protect your kidney health
Maintaining healthy kidneys involves lifestyle changes and regular monitoring. Tips include:

• Staying well-hydrated
• Managing blood pressure and blood sugar
• Avoiding excessive use of NSAIDs or over-the-counter medications
• Reducing salt intake
• Limiting alcohol and quitting smoking
• Eating a kidney-friendly diet
• Getting regular check-ups and blood/urine tests

Also read | Why kidney infections spike during the monsoon season and how to stay safe