Causes of Urine Colour Changes
Wondering why your urine colour has changed? Discover the common causes behind urine colour variations from hydration levels to health conditions and when to seek medical help.
Written by Dr. Rohinipriyanka Pondugula
Reviewed by Dr. J T Hema Pratima MBBS
Last updated on 11th Aug, 2025
Have you ever noticed that your urine colour changes from time to time? While it may seem alarming, urine colour can vary due to several reasons; some harmless and others that may need medical attention. Understanding what different urine colours mean can help you stay aware of your health.
What Does Normal Urine Colour Look Like?
Healthy urine is typically pale yellow to amber in colour. This shade comes from urochrome, a pigment produced when your body breaks down haemoglobin (a protein in red blood cells). The exact shade depends on how much water you drink; more fluids make urine lighter, while less hydration makes it darker.
Common Causes of Urine Colour Changes
1. Clear or Pale Yellow Urine
Cause: Drinking plenty of water.
What it means: This is usually a sign of good hydration. However, if your urine is always clear, you may be drinking too much water, which can dilute essential electrolytes.
2. Dark Yellow or Amber Urine
Cause: Dehydration.
What it means: When you don’t drink enough water, your urine becomes more concentrated, making it darker. Increasing fluid intake usually resolves this.
3. Orange Urine
Possible Causes:
Dehydration (similar to dark yellow urine).
Certain medications (like rifampin, phenazopyridine, or some laxatives).
Liver or bile duct issues (if accompanied by pale stools or yellow skin/eyes).
When to worry: If orange urine persists without an obvious cause, consult a doctor.
4. Pink or Red Urine
Possible Causes:
Foods: Beets, blackberries, and rhubarb can temporarily turn urine pink/red.
Blood in urine (Hematuria): This could indicate infections, kidney stones, bladder issues, or even prostate problems (in men).
When to worry: If you haven’t eaten pigmented foods and see red/pink urine, seek medical advice.
5. Blue or Green Urine
Possible Causes:
Food dyes or medications (like certain antidepressants, pain relievers, or vitamins).
Rare genetic conditions (such as "blue diaper syndrome").
When to worry: If the colour persists without an obvious cause, consult a doctor.
6. Brown or Tea-Colored Urine
Possible Causes:
Severe dehydration.
Liver disease (especially if accompanied by jaundice).
Muscle breakdown (Rhabdomyolysis), often due to extreme exercise or injury.
When to worry: Brown urine, especially with muscle pain or fatigue, requires immediate medical attention.
Consult Top Specialists
7. Cloudy or Murky Urine
Possible Causes:
Urinary tract infection (UTI).
Kidney stones.
Excess protein or minerals in urine.
When to worry: If cloudy urine is accompanied by pain, burning, or foul smell, see a doctor.
When Should You See a Doctor?
Most urine colour changes are harmless and temporary, but some may indicate an underlying health issue. Seek medical help if you notice:
Persistent red/pink urine (not from food).
Dark brown or tea-colored urine.
Cloudy urine with pain or fever.
Unusual colour changes without explanation.
Tips for Healthy Urine Colour
Stay hydrated – Drink enough water (about 8 glasses a day).
Monitor diet – Some foods and vitamins can alter urine colour.
Avoid excessive supplements – High doses of vitamins (like B12) can cause bright yellow urine.
Check medications – Some drugs affect urine colour; ask your doctor if concerned.
Need a Consultation?
If you’re worried about changes in your urine colour, it’s always best to consult a healthcare professional. You can easily book a doctor’s consultation or schedule a urine test through Apollo 24|7 for quick and reliable results.
Conclusion
Urine colour changes are common and often harmless, but they can sometimes signal health concerns. Paying attention to these changes along with other symptoms can help you take the right steps toward better health. Stay hydrated, eat a balanced diet, and don’t hesitate to seek medical advice if something seems off.
Consult Top Specialists
Consult Top Specialists
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