Don't Ignore It... 5 Changes in Urine That May Indicate Early Kidney Damage

SadaNews - Urine is one of the most important indicators reflecting the health status of the body; noticing any change in its color, shape, or smell can early reveal internal disorders, particularly those related to kidney functions. Often, these signs go unnoticed, even though they may be an early warning of a health issue that requires medical assessment. Therefore, paying attention to these changes and not underestimating them contributes to the early detection of kidney diseases and reducing their complications.

Here are the most prominent changes in urine that may indicate the beginning of kidney damage, according to "The Health Site":

1- Foamy or bubbly urine

Noticing repeated foam in the urine, especially if it resembles soap bubbles and does not easily disappear, may indicate protein leakage into the urine. Healthy kidneys prevent protein from passing through, so persistent foaming may be an early sign of dysfunction.

2- Dark or tea-colored urine

A change in urine color to darker shades such as dark yellow, brown, or tea color may indicate a build-up of waste in the body or even the presence of blood. Although dehydration is a common cause of this change, persistent dark color may signal more serious issues like kidney disorders, warranting medical consultation.

3- Presence of blood in the urine (pink or reddish color)

The appearance of urine that is pink or red is a cause for concern; it may indicate the presence of blood, a condition known as hematuria. This condition occurs when the filtering units in the kidneys are damaged, allowing red blood cells to leak. Although this symptom may also result from infections or kidney stones, it should not be ignored under any circumstances.

4- Increased or decreased urination

A noticeable change in the number of times one urinates, whether increased (especially at night) or decreased, may be one of the first warning signs. When the kidneys are affected, they may lose the ability to filter fluids efficiently, leading to an imbalance in the amount of urine produced.

5- Cloudy urine or foul smell

Cloudy urine or urine with a strong and unusual odor indicates an infection or elevated protein levels. Although some foods may temporarily affect the urine's smell, persistent cloudiness or an overpowering smell may be associated with kidney issues or urinary tract infections, necessitating medical evaluation.