Brown Urine: Causes and When to See a Urologist

Q: Brown Urine: Causes and When to See a Urologist

Hello： You may need to have a urine test first, followed by a blood draw. <br>The urology outpatient clinic should be able to assist you. <br>Wishing you good health.

Hematuria - Brown urine

Two days ago in the afternoon, I engaged in baseball throwing activities.
After getting angry that evening, my urine appeared brown (which I have not experienced before).
After resting that night, the next day my urine turned dark yellow.
Despite drinking plenty of water over the past two days, it remains dark yellow.
I would like to ask the doctor what the issue might be and whether I should see a urologist for an examination.

10cL, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/10/24

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology

Hello: You may need to have a urine test first, followed by a blood draw.
The urology outpatient clinic should be able to assist you.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2022/10/24

More Info

Brown urine can be alarming and may indicate several underlying conditions, particularly when it appears suddenly after physical activity or emotional stress. In your case, the brown color of your urine following a day of baseball pitching and subsequent anger could be attributed to a few potential causes.

1. Dehydration: Intense physical activity, especially in hot weather, can lead to dehydration. When dehydrated, urine becomes concentrated, which can result in a darker color, ranging from deep yellow to brown. It's essential to ensure adequate hydration before, during, and after exercise.

2. Hematuria: The presence of blood in the urine can cause it to appear brown. This can occur due to various reasons, including trauma, kidney stones, or strenuous exercise, which can lead to a condition known as "exercise-induced hematuria." If you experienced any trauma to the abdomen or lower back during your activity, this could be a contributing factor.

3. Myoglobinuria: Intense exercise can sometimes lead to muscle breakdown, releasing myoglobin into the bloodstream, which can subsequently be filtered by the kidneys and appear in the urine, giving it a brownish tint. This condition is known as rhabdomyolysis, and it can be serious if not addressed promptly.

4. Medications and Foods: Certain medications, supplements, or foods can also cause urine discoloration. For example, some antibiotics, laxatives, or foods like beets can lead to brown or dark yellow urine.

5. Liver or Kidney Issues: Brown urine can also indicate liver problems (such as hepatitis or cirrhosis) or kidney issues. Conditions affecting the liver can lead to the presence of bilirubin in the urine, which can cause a brown color.

Given that your urine has remained dark yellow for two days despite increased fluid intake, it is advisable to consult a urologist or a primary care physician. They can perform a thorough evaluation, which may include:
- Urinalysis: This will help determine if there are any signs of blood, protein, or other abnormalities in your urine.

- Blood tests: These can assess kidney function, liver function, and muscle breakdown markers (like creatine kinase).

- Imaging studies: If necessary, imaging studies such as an ultrasound or CT scan may be performed to rule out structural issues in the kidneys or urinary tract.

In the meantime, monitor your symptoms closely. If you experience any additional symptoms such as pain during urination, back pain, abdominal pain, or if the urine color worsens, seek medical attention promptly.
In summary, while brown urine can sometimes be benign, especially after exercise, it is crucial to rule out more serious conditions. Consulting a healthcare professional will provide clarity and ensure that any underlying issues are addressed appropriately.

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