Foamy Urine: Causes, Concerns, and When to Seek Help - Urology

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Recently, my urine has been foamy?


I'm worried.
I've noticed that my urine has been bubbly lately, with both large and small bubbles! Most of the time, they disappear.
I got nervous and went to see a doctor for a check-up.
After a urinalysis, all the results came back normal.
The doctor said it should be temporary and told me not to worry.
Two days later, there were no bubbles at all! I thought it was resolved! However, yesterday there were a few bubbles again.
What could be the reason? Am I going to need dialysis? I don't have any other symptoms.
Could it be related to the acne medication I've been taking for the past two weeks? But I've stopped taking it! What should I do? Could it be serious? I asked some male friends, and they said they sometimes have bubbles too, but their health check-ups were normal...
why is this happening? The important thing is that I've developed a habit of drinking 1500 to 2000 cc of water daily...
why are there still bubbles? I'm really worried! What is going on? Is there something wrong with my kidneys?

Kekoya, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/01/06

Dr. Xu Weikai reply Urology


Cocoa: Hello, as long as the urine flow rate is sufficient, bubbles will appear.
To avoid bubble formation, you can reduce the flow rate while urinating; if you let it drip slowly, there will definitely be no bubbles.
Note: Physicians do not use the presence of bubbles in urine for diagnosis.
Urine bubbles have no clinical significance.
If there are any unclear points, feel free to ask again, and we can discuss and research further.
Answers found online should only be used as a reference; if necessary, it is still important to seek medical attention at a healthcare facility.
This message is brought to you by Dr.
Hsu Wei-Kai, Director of the Urology Department at Taitung Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2016/01/06

More Info


Foamy urine can be a concerning symptom for many individuals, and it’s understandable to feel anxious when you notice changes in your urine. However, it’s important to understand the potential causes and when to seek medical advice.

Foamy urine can occur for several reasons, and not all of them are indicative of a serious health issue. One common cause is the presence of protein in the urine, which can happen due to various conditions, including kidney problems. However, as you mentioned, your urine tests came back normal, which is a reassuring sign. Temporary foamy urine can also result from dehydration, vigorous exercise, or even the speed at which you urinate. When urine is expelled quickly, it can create bubbles that may appear foamy.

In your case, you noted that you have been drinking a significant amount of water daily (1500-2000cc), which should help dilute your urine and reduce the likelihood of foaming. If the foamy urine persists despite adequate hydration, it could be worth monitoring. It’s also possible that the medications you were taking for your skin condition could have had a temporary effect on your urine, but since you have stopped taking them, this should not be a long-term concern.

It’s also important to consider other factors that could contribute to foamy urine. For instance, certain dietary habits, such as high protein intake, can lead to increased protein levels in the urine. Additionally, if you are experiencing any other symptoms, such as swelling in your legs or feet, fatigue, or changes in your appetite, it would be prudent to follow up with your healthcare provider.

You mentioned that some of your male friends also experience foamy urine occasionally, which suggests that this can be a common occurrence and may not necessarily indicate a serious problem. However, if you continue to notice foamy urine or if it becomes more pronounced, it would be wise to consult with your doctor again. They may recommend further tests, such as a 24-hour urine protein test, to assess for any underlying kidney issues.

In summary, while foamy urine can be a symptom of kidney problems, it can also be caused by benign factors such as dehydration or rapid urination. Since your initial tests were normal and you are not experiencing other concerning symptoms, it is likely that this is a temporary issue. However, maintaining open communication with your healthcare provider is essential, especially if you have ongoing concerns. Regular check-ups and monitoring your symptoms will help ensure that any potential issues are addressed promptly. Remember, it’s always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to your health.

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