Superdrug’s Pharmacy Superintendent, Niamh McMillan, has raised concerns about the potential health risks associated with unusual urine colours. In a recent statement, McMillan highlighted five problematic urine colours that could be indicative of serious health conditions. Among these colours are brownish yellow, green, blue, red, and milky white.
McMillan explained that while green or blue urine is often harmless and can be caused by food dyes or certain medications, in some cases, it could signal a medical condition known as Pseudomonas infection. Changes in urine colour can also be attributed to diet, hydration levels, and medication. For instance, certain foods like blackberries, blueberries, and rhubarb can tint urine pink, while dehydration can darken its colour.
Brown urine, according to McMillan, might be a sign of liver inflammation or hepatitis. Other symptoms of hepatitis include fever, fatigue, and yellowing of the skin or eyes. Similarly, kidney diseases can also cause urine to turn brown, accompanied by symptoms like swelling and fatigue. The pharmacist stressed that red urine should never be ignored, as it could indicate a severe issue such as kidney stones or injury.
Milky white urine, on the other hand, could be a sign of a urinary tract infection (UTI), especially if accompanied by discomfort during urination. McMillan advised seeking medical attention promptly if a UTI is suspected, to prevent it from progressing into a more serious kidney infection. She highlighted that women are more susceptible to UTIs due to the shorter length of their urethra, making it easier for bacteria to reach the bladder.
In conclusion, McMillan emphasised the importance of monitoring urine colour as it can serve as a valuable indicator of an individual’s health status. Any significant changes in urine colour should prompt a consultation with a healthcare professional to rule out potential underlying health issues.