Urine can tell you a lot about your health. While its color is one clue, an unusual odor can also signal potential issues. Let’s explore the most common causes of smelly urine and what steps you can take to address them.
Dehydration – A Simple Fix
Dehydration is one of the most common causes of strong-smelling urine. When you’re dehydrated, urine becomes more concentrated, resulting in a stronger ammonia smell. This is because there is less water to dilute the waste products being expelled from the body.1
What to do: Drink more water! Aim for at least eight glasses a day to keep yourself hydrated. You’ll notice the odor diminishes as your hydration levels improve.
Asparagus, Garlic, or Something Else You Ate
Certain foods, especially asparagus, onions, and garlic, are notorious for creating smelly urine. These foods contain specific compounds that, when broken down, create strong-smelling metabolites.2
What to do: To avoid this, either cut back on these foods or drink plenty of water during meals to help dilute the chemicals that cause the smell.
Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) – A Common Culprit
A UTI can cause your urine to develop a foul odor, often accompanied by symptoms like burning during urination, frequent urges to pee, and cloudy or bloody urine.3 The infection is caused by bacteria that enter the urinary tract and multiply in the bladder.
What to do: Seek medical attention if you suspect a UTI. Antibiotics will likely be prescribed, and drinking plenty of fluids can help flush out bacteria.
Diabetes – Sweet-Smelling Urine
Your urine doesn’t need to be smelly to be odd. A sweet or fruity smell in your urine could be a sign of uncontrolled diabetes. This happens when there is excess glucose in your bloodstream, which spills over into your urine.
What to do: If you have diabetes or suspect you may have it, managing blood sugar levels through diet, exercise, and medication is essential. Consult a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and management.
Kidney Stones – A Sharp, Smelly Symptom
Kidney stones can cause a strong odor in urine, often accompanied by severe pain, nausea, and visible blood in the urine. These stones form when minerals like calcium and salt stick together and block the urinary tract.
What to do: If you experience these symptoms, see a doctor. In many cases, small stones pass on their own, but larger ones may require medical intervention.
Medications and Supplements – Unexpected Side Effects
Certain medications, including vitamin B supplements and antibiotics like sulfa drugs, can cause smelly urine. These compounds alter your body’s chemical balance, leading to sulfur-like smells in your urine.
What to do: If the odor bothers you, consult your doctor about switching medications. Staying hydrated can also help reduce the intensity of the smell.
Bacterial Vaginosis – A Fishy Odor
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a condition caused by an imbalance in the bacteria in the vagina, leading to a distinct fishy odor that can be detected in urine, especially after intercourse.
What to do: BV is easily treated with antibiotics. If you notice symptoms like itching or pain, consult a healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.
Liver Problems – Dark, Smelly Urine
When the liver is not functioning properly, it can’t filter out toxins effectively, leading to dark, smelly urine. Other symptoms include yellowing of the skin and eyes (jaundice) and abdominal pain.
What to do: If you experience these symptoms, see a doctor immediately. Liver problems can be serious, but they are treatable with early detection and proper care.
Maple Syrup Urine Disease (MSUD) – A Rare Condition
MSUD is a rare genetic disorder that causes urine to smell like maple syrup. This condition is diagnosed in infants and can also cause developmental delays and feeding problems.
What to do: MSUD requires lifelong management. If your infant shows symptoms, consult a healthcare provider for testing and treatment options.
When to See a Doctor
Smelly urine is often harmless and can be linked to dehydration or certain foods. However, if the smell persists for more than a few days or is accompanied by other symptoms like pain or fever, it’s time to consult a healthcare provider.
By staying hydrated, watching your diet, and paying attention to your body, you can often resolve the issue on your own. But don’t hesitate to seek medical help if the odor is persistent or concerning.