Share

What your urine colour may mean

accreditation
Your urine needs to be the right colour.
Your urine needs to be the right colour.

Most of the time, your urine should be a pale yellow colour, says Harvard Medical School.

Though food or medication can change urine's colour, if your urine truly looks abnormal, you should always consult a doctor without delay.

Harvard Medical School mentions these typical causes of a change in urine colour:

  • Dark yellow typically indicates dehydration from lack of fluids.
  • Red may indicate a problem with the urinary system.
  • Brown or black urine may indicate a liver condition.
  • Orange is often the result of taking certain medications.
  • Milky-white urine colour may indicate a urinary tract infection.
  • Blue and green colours typically result from diagnostic test dyes.
  • Purple urine may occur when someone has a urinary catheter.

Image credit: iStock

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE