Smelly urine

Overview

Smelly urine is urine that has a stronger or different smell than usual. It is often harmless and can be caused by what you eat or drink, but sometimes it can be a sign of an infection.

Yes, it is very common. Many people experience smelly urine at some point.

Anyone can have smelly urine, but it is more common in women because they are more prone to UTIs.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Urine that smells stronger than usual
• A change in the type of smell (e.g., sweet, fishy, or ammonia-like)
• Urine that looks darker or cloudy

Symptoms in children

• Smelly urine in children may also be accompanied by crying when urinating, fever, or holding their urine.

Symptoms in older adults

• Older adults may have smelly urine without other symptoms, but it could be a sign of a UTI or dehydration.

Causes

Main causes

• Dehydration (not drinking enough fluids)
• Certain foods like asparagus, coffee, garlic, or onions
• Vitamins or supplements (like vitamin B6)
• Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
• Kidney or bladder stones
• Some medications
• Liver problems (rarely)

Risk factors

• Being female
• Being sexually active
• Being older
• Having a urinary catheter
• Having diabetes
• Not drinking enough fluids

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you have smelly urine along with fever, chills, back pain, or blood in urine
• If you have pain or burning when urinating and it is affecting your daily activities

Book a routine appointment if:

• If the smell lasts more than a few days without a clear cause
• If you have smelly urine along with other symptoms like frequent urination or stomach pain

Diagnosis

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms, medical history, and what you have been eating or drinking. They may also do a simple urine test (urinalysis) to check for infection or other problems.

Tests that may be done

• Urine dipstick test (a small strip of paper dipped in urine)
• Urine culture to look for bacteria
• Blood tests if a kidney problem is suspected
• Imaging tests (like an ultrasound) if stones are possible

What to expect at your appointment

The doctor will likely want a urine sample. You will be asked to urinate into a sterile cup. The test is quick and painless. Results for a dipstick are ready in minutes; culture results may take a day or two.

Treatment

Treatment depends on the cause. If it is due to dehydration, drinking more water will fix it. If a UTI is found, antibiotics (a type of medicine that kills bacteria) are usually prescribed.

Self-care at home

• Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated
• Avoid foods or drinks that seem to cause the smell (like asparagus or coffee)
• Practice good hygiene, especially after using the toilet
• Urinate when you feel the need, don't hold it in

Medical treatments

If a UTI is diagnosed, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics. They will tell you how to take them. Always finish the course even if you feel better. For other causes like stones, treatment may involve pain relief or procedures to remove stones. Do not use any over-the-counter products to change urine smell without consulting a doctor.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is rarely needed for smelly urine itself, but if it is caused by kidney stones or other blockages, surgery might be considered. Your doctor will discuss this if necessary.

Living with this condition

For most people, smelly urine is a temporary issue. If it is due to an infection, following treatment will resolve it. Stay aware of your body and notice any changes.

Lifestyle tips

• Drink 6-8 glasses of water a day (unless your doctor advises otherwise)
• Limit foods or drinks that cause strong smells
• Empty your bladder fully when you urinate

Diet and exercise

A balanced diet and regular exercise help keep your immune system strong. Cranberry juice is sometimes thought to help prevent UTIs, but it is not a substitute for treatment.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Smelly urine can be embarrassing, but it is very common and usually harmless. Do not let it keep you from seeking help if you need it.

Prevention

Not always, but staying hydrated and practicing good hygiene can reduce the risk of UTIs, which are a common cause.

Screening programmes

No routine screening is needed. If you have recurrent UTIs, your doctor may suggest monitoring.

Complications

If left untreated

• If a UTI is not treated, it can spread to the kidneys and cause a more serious infection (pyelonephritis).
• Very rarely, smelly urine from a serious condition like liver disease can lead to complications if not addressed.

Long-term outlook

For the vast majority of people, smelly urine resolves on its own or with simple treatment. With proper care, any underlying infection can be cured. The long-term outlook is excellent.

Find support

External links open third-party websites. Ruqelo Health is not responsible for external content. Listing an organisation does not imply endorsement.