Urine Color Changes: When to Seek Medical Attention

Q: Urine Color Changes: When to Seek Medical Attention

Hello： Dragon fruit contains plant pigments, which can cause some people's urine to change color. <br>However, it is recommended to drink plenty of water, at least 2000 cc (2 liters) of plain water per day. <br>If there are still abnormalities, medical attention should be sought.

Urine color

Doctor, today my urine color changed to something like the one on the left side of this image http://img1.how01.com/imgs/86/96/3/5e7300048df2dcb5b991.jpg.
If the image doesn't open, it's somewhat similar to the background color of the question being typed, a pinkish-brown.
I drank very little water today, only two cups, and I feel quite thirsty.
I also ate dragon fruit; could this affect my condition? Should I seek medical attention or just observe? Additionally, a while ago, when I was also drinking less water, my urine had more bubbles, but that issue disappeared after I increased my water intake.
Is there a connection?

Niming, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/09/21

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology

Hello: Dragon fruit contains plant pigments, which can cause some people's urine to change color.
However, it is recommended to drink plenty of water, at least 2000 cc (2 liters) of plain water per day.
If there are still abnormalities, medical attention should be sought.
The presence of more bubbles in urine is also related to water intake.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2018/09/21

More Info

Urine color can be a significant indicator of hydration status, dietary influences, and potential underlying health issues. In your case, the change in urine color to a pinkish-brown hue, especially after consuming red dragon fruit and drinking less water, raises some important considerations.

Firstly, the color of urine can vary widely based on several factors, including hydration levels, food intake, medications, and health conditions. Red dragon fruit, known for its vibrant pigmentation, can indeed cause a temporary change in urine color, often leading to a reddish or pinkish tint. This is due to the presence of betalains, which are natural pigments found in the fruit. However, if the urine appears consistently discolored, especially if it resembles blood, it is essential to consider other potential causes.

The presence of a pinkish-brown color in urine could also indicate the presence of blood (hematuria) or other substances that may not be normal. This could be due to various reasons, including urinary tract infections (UTIs), kidney stones, or even more serious conditions such as glomerulonephritis or tumors. Given that you mentioned experiencing thirst and having consumed less water, dehydration could also contribute to concentrated urine, which may appear darker.

Additionally, you noted that you previously experienced foamy urine, which can sometimes indicate proteinuria (the presence of excess protein in urine), a condition that may suggest kidney issues. While the foamy urine resolved with increased hydration, it’s important to monitor any recurring symptoms.

In light of these factors, it is advisable to seek medical attention, especially if the discoloration persists or if you experience other symptoms such as pain during urination, frequent urination, or any discomfort in the abdominal or lower back areas. A healthcare provider can perform a urinalysis to check for the presence of blood, protein, or other abnormalities, and may recommend further testing if necessary.

In summary, while dietary choices like consuming red dragon fruit can influence urine color, the presence of a pinkish-brown tint warrants further investigation to rule out any potential health issues. It is always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to changes in urine color, especially if accompanied by other symptoms. A simple urine test can provide valuable insights and help ensure that any underlying conditions are addressed promptly.

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