10 Common Causes of Smelly Urine

By shirley

Reviewed: dr. stavarache

Article Sources

Article Sources

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Urine typically has a mild odor. The odor may vary slightly, depending on factors such as the amount of liquid consumed, types of foods eaten and medications taken. Anyone can experience changes in urine scent, but women, older adults and people with family histories of kidney or bladder stones may be more likely to notice unusual urine odors.

Sometimes the odor of urine changes significantly. While some changes are temporary and generally nothing to worry about, other changes may be indicative of an underlying medical condition and may warrant seeing a doctor. ¹‘Changes in Urine; Symptoms, Causes & Treatment.’ Cleveland Clinic, my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/15357-urine-changes

Dehydration

When a person loses more fluids than they take in, the body may not have enough fluids to carry out normal functions, and dehydration may result. Urination may occur less frequently, the urine may have a darker color than normal and the urine may have an ammonia-like odor. Other symptoms may include extreme thirst, confusion, dizziness and fatigue.

People experiencing diarrhea and vomiting may be more likely to develop dehydration. Exercising in hot weather and failing to drink enough fluids may also lead to dehydration. Remaining hydrated by drinking plenty of liquids may help keep dehydration at bay.¹‘Changes in Urine; Symptoms, Causes & Treatment.’ Cleveland Clinic, my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/15357-urine-changes^,2‘Dehydration.’ Mayo Clinic, Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 19 Sept. 2019, www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/dehydration/symptoms-causes/syc-20354086