Cloudy, foul-smelling urine: possible causes

Urine can look cloudy after crystals, mucus, or cells enter it. A strong smell may be linked with concentration, foods, supplements, or infection. If there is also burning, urgency, or frequent urination, a urinary tract infection is one possible explanation; see Urinary Tract Infection.

Fever, nausea, chills, or pain under the ribs or in the back can occur when infection affects the kidneys. Kidney Infection information explains why these symptoms need quicker attention. A single change in appearance is not enough to identify its cause.

Keep drinking fluids normally unless you have been given a fluid limit. Consider whether the change followed a new food, supplement, or medicine, and note whether it disappears after hydration.

Book a clinical assessment if the smell or cloudiness remains, recurs, or is joined by urinary discomfort. A clinician may use a clean-catch urine sample and ask about discharge, periods, sexual health, and previous urinary problems.

Seek prompt medical care for fever, chills, vomiting, flank or back pain, confusion, severe weakness, or blood in the urine. Pregnancy, kidney disease, or immune problems are reasons to contact a clinician early when urinary changes appear.

Ask what urine testing is suitable, whether a medicine or food could explain the smell, and how to collect a clean sample. Tell the clinician the start date, any pain or fever, and whether the change affects every urination or only some.