Generally, urine has a yellowish color that can range from a dark honey-like hue to a pale shade. As urology specialists know, the normal color is based on how much of the pigment urochrome is present and whether the liquid is concentrated or diluted. Other hues may be the result of an illness or food you ate. Here’s what to watch for. 

4 Urine Colors Urology Specialists Commonly See

1. Red

Eating blackberries or beets can turn your urine red due to the betanin, the pigment that gives beets their color. Alternatively, the color may appear when there’s blood in your urine; this is called hematuria. Also, the release of myoglobin, a protein that binds oxygen to your muscle cells, can cause reddish discoloration after a vigorous workout. Other reasons for a pinkish or reddish color include urinary tract infections, kidney stones, an enlarged prostate, and cancer.

2. Brown

Hepatitis or liver disease leads to the release of bilirubin, a by-product of hemoglobin, and turns urine brown. Skin cancer, dehydration, or eating aloe, rhubarb, or fava beans can produce a brownish hue.

3. Purple

Some people who use urinary catheters experience purple urine bag syndrome. Catheters and collection bags may contain bacteria that generate red indirubin and blue indigo. As with paints, when these bacterial colors combine, purple urine is the result.  

4. Orange

Damaged liver or bile ducts can lead to pale stools and orange urine. In addition to dehydration, some cancer-fighting drugs, laxatives, and medications for reducing inflammation can turn urine orange. Finally, eating excessive amounts of carrots releases beta-carotene into the bloodstream, giving urine that vegetable’s color.    

If you have questions about your urine color, get answers from Medical Center Urology in High Point, NC. Serving the Triad Area, these urology specialists provide male and female patients with high-quality urological care and service, addressing issues, such as urinary tract infections, incontinence, and cancer. For more about how they can help improve or maintain your health, visit them online. Call (336) 882-0220 for a confidential appointment.