What does it mean when urine foams: causes and how to solve the problem
Should I be worried about this symptom?
When it comes to your bathroom habits, it's usually a personal matter. But if you've taken a quick look at your pee and noticed foamy urine, it could be a red flag, and you're likely asking yourself, “What does foamy urine mean?”
According to urologist David Shusterman, it's generally normal to have some foam or bubbles in your urine. Especially if your urine stream is strong and hits the toilet with force. However, sometimes it can indicate an illness. MigNews will tell you how to understand that you have a problem.
Why do we pee?
According to Dr. Shusterman, urine is a liquid product produced by the kidneys to filter excess water and toxins from the body. It is mostly made up of water, but it also contains urea, creatinine, electrolytes, and other waste products. However, the exact composition of urine depends on your hydration level, diet, and overall health, he adds.
Urine’s main job is to flush out waste and toxins from your body, and to keep your fluid and electrolyte levels in check. But Dr. Shusterman says your urine can also tell you a lot about how your kidneys and organs are working. So if you notice any persistent changes or worrying characteristics in your urine (like blood, a foul odor, or pain when you urinate), it’s time to see your doctor. It could be a sign of an underlying medical condition, he explains.
Foam or bubbles in your urine are usually normal, but the accompanying symptoms may shed light on the underlying cause. Keep reading to better understand what causes foamy urine.
What does foamy urine mean: dehydration
According to Dr. Shusterman, dehydration occurs when your body doesn't have enough water, which can cause your urine to become dark and possibly foamy. Other signs to look out for include dry mouth, fatigue, and dark yellow urine. So the first step in this case would be to increase your hydration levels and drink plenty of water.
To prevent this problem (and support your overall health!), try to drink at least six to eight glasses of water a day. You can also add an electrolyte powder to help replenish sodium levels, which can drop when you're dehydrated.
Why is there foam in your urine: proteinuria
Proteinuria occurs when there is too much protein in the urine. This leads to foamy urine and possible swelling in the hands, feet, or face, says Dr. Shusterman. According to the Cleveland Clinic, proteinuria is not a disease in itself, but rather a symptom of certain conditions that affect the kidneys, including kidney disease or immune disorders.
Treatment depends on the underlying cause and may include medication or lifestyle changes, so if you experience swelling, muscle cramps, loss of appetite, shortness of breath, and/or frequent urination with foamy urine, see your doctor, says Dr. Shusterman.
What does foamy urine mean: urinary tract infection
A urinary tract infection (UTI) can cause foamy urine because bacteria create bubbles in the urine, Dr. Shusterman says. Additional symptoms include frequent urination, a burning sensation, and cloudy or foul-smelling urine, he explains. UTIs are usually treated with antibiotics, so if your symptoms don’t go away on their own, you should see your doctor, he says.
Why is there foam in your urine: kidney problems
Kidney problems, such as kidney disease or damage, can cause foamy urine due to protein leakage, says Dr. Shusterman. Healthy kidneys filter toxins and waste products from the blood, keeping protein circulating in the bloodstream. And increased protein in the urine can cause foamy urine, which is a sign that something is wrong. Kidney problems are also often accompanied by swelling, high blood pressure, and changes in urination (both in frequency and appearance). So it's important to monitor your symptoms and see your doctor. Treatment may include medication, dietary changes, or dialysis, says Dr. Shusterman.
What does foamy urine mean: frequent urination
It sounds counterintuitive, but when you urinate vigorously, your urine can become foamy due to bubbles created when your urine hits the water in the toilet, says Dr. Shusterman. Additional bubbles may also appear if you urinate more quickly and/or if your toilet has just been cleaned with toilet cleaner or chemicals. This is usually harmless and doesn't require medical attention. But if you have other worrisome symptoms, Dr. Shusterman recommends talking to your doctor.
Why is there foam in your urine: remedies
Certain medications and supplements can be the culprits behind foamy urine. That’s why it’s important to discuss your foamy urine with your doctor for possible dosage adjustments or alternatives, says Dr. Shusterman. In particular, if you regularly take over-the-counter pain relievers, this can lead to foamy urine due to increased protein levels in your urine. If your foamy urine doesn’t go away even after you stop taking the medication or supplement, it’s worth getting a medical evaluation. This is to rule out any underlying health issues, Dr. Shusterman adds.
What does it mean when urine foams: a dream
Foamy urine can occur at any time of day. But some people may notice more bubbles in their urine in the morning because urine is more concentrated after sleep, says Dr. Shusterman. But don't worry, it's nothing to worry about.
When to see a doctor about foamy urine
If foamy urine occurs without any other symptoms, it’s likely temporary and harmless, says Dr. Shusterman. “But if your urine is consistently foamy, or if it’s foaming along with other issues like frequent urination, pain, or strange-colored urine, it could be a sign that something more serious is going on. And you should definitely see a doctor.” Additionally, if you’re feeling tired, have swelling in your feet, ankles, or face, have a fever, chills, and/or have foul-smelling or bloody urine, it’s time to see a doctor.
The doctor will perform the necessary tests to diagnose the underlying cause of foamy urine and prescribe the correct treatment.
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