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Overview
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Urine consists of excess water and waste products that have been filtered
from the blood by the kidneys. It is a clear, transparent fluid,
normally has an amber color. The natural color is due to excretion
of urochrome, a blood pigment. The amount of fluids you drink can
also influence the colour of urine from almost clear (diluted) to dark
orange (concentrated).
The amount
of urine passed on average is 500mls less than the total amount of fluid
taken in. For example, if a patient drinks 2000mls of fluid, approximately
1500mls of urine will be passed. However, if the weather is hot
and the person is sweating a lot or his bowel are loose and watery, the
urine output will be less.
Most changes
in urine color are temporary and caused by food colors or medications.
However, an abnormal urine color may indicate a serious disease. Consult
your doctor if you're concerned about the color of urine, especially
if you notice blood in it.
Types of Urine and Indications
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Urine which is darker or paler
than usual: an indication that it is more concentrated or more dilute
than would normally be the case.
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Smoky
or red-coloured urine: an indication that there may be blood present.
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Dark
brown or tea colored: sign of liver disorders indicating that bile may be
present, especially if accompanied by pale stools and jaundice. It
could also due to the side effect of certain medications, blood in urine,
and certain foods and food dyes.
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Cloudy
or murky urine: an indication that blood, pus or excess mucus are
present. This is a common sign of urinary tract infections and kidney
stones.
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Hazy
urine which smells fishy: this is usually a sign of bladder infection.
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Consult your doctor if you are concerned
about the changes in the urine.
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