These 5 Changes In Urine Could Be Warning Signs

Last Updated:May 27, 2025, 16:23 IST

Common diabetes symptoms include thirst and weight loss, but changes in urine, like colour, odour, or frequency, can also signal high blood sugar and early kidney stress

Diabetes is a chronic condition caused by elevated blood sugar levels. Millions of people around the world are affected by this disease, which is often linked to poor dietary habits and a sedentary lifestyle.

Common symptoms include frequent thirst and unexplained weight loss. However, one lesser-known sign of high blood sugar is a change in urine, which can also reflect kidney and overall health. Identifying these signs early can help manage diabetes more effectively.

Diabetes and Insulin

Diabetes occurs when the body cannot properly regulate blood sugar. This happens either due to insufficient insulin production or the body’s inability to use insulin effectively. As a result, excess sugar builds up in the blood, putting pressure on the kidneys, which are responsible for filtering it. Over time, this affects kidney function and leads to noticeable changes in urination.

Key Urine-Related Symptoms of Diabetes

Frequent Urination

One of the most common signs of high blood sugar is the need to urinate frequently, known medically as polyuria. When glucose levels are high, the kidneys work overtime to remove the excess sugar, leading to frequent urination, especially at night. If you’re making more bathroom trips than usual, consider getting your blood sugar tested.

Foamy Urine

Excess sugar and protein in the urine can cause it to appear foamy. This condition, known as proteinuria, indicates that the kidneys are under stress and may not be functioning properly. Persistent foamy urine can be an early warning sign of diabetes and should be discussed with a doctor.

Change in Urine Colour

Another sign of high blood sugar is darker-than-usual urine. While normal urine is pale yellow, in people with diabetes it may appear dark yellow, brownish, or cloudy. This is often due to dehydration and excess glucose and suggests that the kidneys are struggling to filter properly.

Unpleasant Odour

Urine typically has little to no odour if the kidneys are functioning well and you’re hydrated. However, in diabetic patients, urine may have a strong or unpleasant smell caused by high glucose or ketone levels. It could also indicate a urinary tract infection, which is more common in people with diabetes. If your urine smells bad over a period of days, it’s important to seek medical advice.

Early Detection Matters

Changes in urination can be an early indicator of diabetes or kidney-related complications. Paying attention to these signs and getting timely medical support can help manage the disease and prevent further damage to the body. Regular blood sugar checks and a healthy lifestyle remain key to prevention and control.

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