What could be causing my dark, smelly urine?
Ask the doctor
Q. At times, my urine is dark and smells. Should I worry?
A. Given this only happens to you at certain times, it probably is not something to worry about. But before reassuring you, I would need answers to some questions:
- By dark, do you mean dark yellow? Or is your urine brown or red?
- What medical conditions or problems do you have, if any?
- Are you having any other symptoms, such as back or pelvic pain, weakness, fatigue, or fever?
- Does this happen only when you don't drink enough fluids?
If your urine is just a dark yellow color at times, especially when you don't drink enough fluids, then it likely is normal. Your kidneys are working properly to conserve body water. Dark yellow urine is one of the signs of dehydration.
Certain foods and medicine can change urine color and make it smell. Eating asparagus is a good example.
You would definitely need to see your doctor
- if your urine is red or brown at times - this could be a sign of a bladder, kidney, blood or liver problem.
- if you have any other symptoms, such as pain, fatigue, or fever.
Here's a simple way to be certain: Collect a fresh urine sample when you have the dark urine. If possible, use a sterile container. Your doctor can quickly and easily test the sample to be sure everything is okay.
Image: © Science Photo Library/Getty Images
About the Author
Howard E. LeWine, MD, Chief Medical Editor, Harvard Health Publishing; Editorial Advisory Board Member, Harvard Health Publishing
Disclaimer:
As a service to our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our library of archived content. Please note the date of last review or update on all articles.
No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.
