What You Should Know: The Color of Your Urine Determines Your Kidney Health

What It Means: Possible blood in the urine (hematuria), kidney stones, infections, or dietary causes.
Explanation: Pink or red urine is often a sign of blood, known as hematuria, in the urinary tract. This can result from urinary tract infections (UTIs), kidney stones, enlarged prostate in men, or, less commonly, kidney or bladder tumors. However, foods like beets, blackberries, or rhubarb can also impart a red or pink hue.
Caution: While dietary causes of red or pink urine are harmless, blood in the urine can indicate potentially serious conditions that require medical attention. If the color persists or if symptoms like pain or burning during urination, lower back pain, or fever occur, seek medical advice promptly.

7. Brown or Cola-Colored

What It Means: Possible severe dehydration, liver issues, or muscle injury.
Explanation: Brown urine can occur in cases of severe dehydration but also in situations where muscle damage has released myoglobin, a protein, into the bloodstream. This condition, known as rhabdomyolysis, places heavy stress on the kidneys. Brown urine may also be a sign of liver disease or bile duct blockages.
Caution: Brown or cola-colored urine warrants immediate attention, especially if accompanied by muscle pain, weakness, jaundice, or swelling. Rhabdomyolysis can cause kidney damage if untreated, and liver or bile duct conditions need prompt medical intervention.

8. Blue or Green