Amber, brown, or red urine can be a symptom of kidney failure, and patients should see a doctor early to be diagnosed with the cause and treated promptly. Urine can change color for many reasons, such as dehydration or consuming particularly colored food or drinks. The color of urine can reflect kidney health, as the kidneys are responsible for removing waste from the body and maintaining a balance of minerals, salt, and water. When the kidneys are weakened, harmful fluids and wastes can build up in the body, leading to changes in urine color.
Many people with kidney disease may not initially have symptoms, but as kidney failure progresses, symptoms may include changes in urine color, frequent urination, leg swelling, difficulty sleeping, muscle cramps, fatigue, nausea, shortness of breath, and more. Sweet-smelling urine can be a symptom of diabetes, which is a common cause of kidney failure. Risk factors for kidney failure include diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, and a family history of kidney failure.
Treatment for kidney failure depends on the specific cause and condition, but lifestyle changes can help manage kidney health and related conditions. Patients should consider dietary changes, reduce salt and protein intake, exercise regularly, and avoid alcohol and tobacco. In cases of acute kidney failure, kidney function may return with treatment, while chronic kidney failure may require hemodialysis or a kidney transplant. It’s important to monitor urine color and consult a doctor if there are any concerning changes.
Urine can come in various colors, and darkening is not always a symptom of kidney disease. Dark yellow urine may indicate dehydration, red urine may be from certain foods or dyes, while medications can also cause discoloration. Clear or light yellow urine is a sign of adequate hydration and healthy kidney function. Monitoring urine color can provide insights into overall health and hydration status.