Urine is not only a waste product, but in many cases it can also be a sign of our health. Before flushing the toilet, therefore, it is a good idea to take a peek at the contents of the cup. If we notice something unusual, it could be the first clue that there is something wrong with our body or our metabolism. In addition to the smell, the easiest characteristic of urine to measure is its color. If our urine has an unusual color, particularly if it is too dark, this could be a symptom of a systemic problem. But let’s see in detail what the presence of too dark urine could indicate.
First we rule out that it is simple dehydration
The most common cause of too dark urine is simply a lack of fluid in the body. If we are dehydrated because we don’t drink enough or because we have recently been exercising and sweating, it affects our urine. In case of dehydration, the urine will be dark yellow in color and with a more pungent odor. But remedying is not difficult: proper hydration is enough. We drink a lot of water and in a short time the situation will return to normal. But what are the cases in which we need to worry?
If our pee is too dark it could be a symptom of these diseases
Dark urine, also called black urine, can have several causes. One of the most feared is the presence of blood in the urine. If our urine contains blood, it is always advisable to seek medical attention promptly.
Another cause of dark urine can be the presence of waste substances in our body. These substances can be both of physiological origin, for example bile, hemoglobin or myoglobin, but also due to the recent intake of drugs.
In some feared cases, however, dark urine is a result of bacterial infections or diseases. Among the most common are: kidney or gallbladder stones, chlamydia, hepatitis, kidney failure and jaundice, but also liver or kidney cancers. If our pee is too dark it could be a symptom of these diseases.
How to remove the doubt
In case of dark colored urine or foul-smelling urine it is always advisable to consult a doctor. A simple urinalysis will likely be able to pinpoint the cause of the unusual color of our urine. It is important to seek medical advice especially if dark urine is accompanied by pain when urinating.
Not everyone knows about unusual urine, but anyone who can smell asparagus in their pee has a genetic talent.