Experts Examine the Spectrum of Urine Colors and Their Underlying Causes

Experts Examine the Spectrum of Urine Colors and Their Underlying Causes

If you’ve ever glanced into the toilet after using the bathroom and observed your urine taking on hues beyond the usual yellow, you might be curious about what these color variations signify.

Health experts, including Ashley Pountney, a physician assistant in urology at the Mayo Clinic, shed light on the diverse spectrum of urine colors and their potential implications.

Color as an Indicator of Hydration: Common Knowledge

It is commonly understood that the color of urine can be indicative of hydration levels.

Light or clear urine often suggests adequate hydration, while a darker color may signal the need to increase water intake.

Fluids play a crucial role in diluting the yellow pigments in urine, making the color more pronounced when hydration is insufficient.

Beyond Yellow: The Rainbow of Urine Colors

Contrary to the typical yellow hue, urine can manifest in various colors, including brown, red, green, and even blue.

These deviations may be linked to factors such as dietary choices, medications, or underlying health conditions, offering valuable insights into an individual’s well-being.

Red or Pink: Hematuria and Beyond

Urine appearing red or pink raises concerns, as it indicates hematuria, signifying bleeding in the urinary tract.

Health conditions such as an enlarged prostate, kidney stones, and cysts can

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