Turbid urine is defined as the urine that is freshly harvested, but with an unclear and murky appearance. Anytime the urine does not have its characteristic clear appearance it is referred to as cloudy, murky, turbid or foamy urine. Cloudy or foamy urine can occasionally occur as a result of mild dehydration, which is determined in the absence of other symptoms. This type of turbid urine goes away rapidly without significant complications or consequences.
The turbidity, which can vary more or less depending on the case and on the patient, is usually due to the presence of pus, crystals, bacteria, blood or lipid material in the urine that cause the urine to appear persistently cloudy or foamy.
The turbid urine is associated with infections, inflammations and other diseases that affect the functioning of the urinary tract (kidneys, ureters, bladder and urethra): urethritis, cystitis, prostatitis, or kidney dysfunction of different types.
In addition to being characterized by an aspect of murkiness, the turbid urine can be accompanied by the presence of other symptoms, including foul-smelling urine, the presence of traces of blood in the urine, burning sensation during urination, abdominal or flank pain, frequent or a decrease in urination, urgent urination, and bladder spasms or cramps in the lower abdominal area.
Turbid urine in men
One cause of turbid urine that is distinctive for men is when ejaculated substances are mixed with the urine. This may occur when semen remains in the urinary tract and it is expelled with the next urination. However, semen in the urine should not be a common or frequent occurrence.
Turbid urine in women
A cause of turbid urine that is particular to women is pregnancy. The numerous hormonal and physical changes during pregnancy can cause cloudy urine. It is not an uncommon event during pregnancy and it is often the result of an increased vaginal discharge, which mixes together with the urine causing turbidity.
What diseases can be associated with turbid urine?
The diseases that can be associated with turbid urine include the following:
- Cystitis
- Diabetes
- Gonorrhoea
- Chlamydia
- Kidney stones
- Pyelonephriti
- Urethritis
- Kidney failure
- Trichomonas
- Prostitis
It is important to note that the list is not exhaustive and it is always good to consult a doctor.
What are the remedies for turbid urine?
In the presence of turbid urine one should contact a doctor. Usually in the cases of turbid urine, a doctor prescribes urinalysis and urine culture tests to identify the underlying cause of the disorder. One should not underestimate the presence of this condition: the timelier the diagnosis, the more possible it will be to intervene with appropriate therapy and reduce the risk of serious complications.
Complications associated with turbid urine vary depending on the underlying condition. Complications of untreated or uncontrolled diseases such as kidney infection or diabetes can become serious or life threatening.
When is the advisable to contact a doctor in case of turbid urine?
In the presence of turbid urine it is always recommended to consult a doctor.
