Dark yellow urine with a foul odour

When fluid intake is low or fluid loss is high, urine becomes more concentrated and its natural smell is stronger. Coffee, some foods, vitamins, and medicines can also change odour. Odour alone is not enough to diagnose a urinary tract infection.

A UTI more often presents with burning, urgency, frequent urination, lower abdominal pain, cloudy urine, or blood. Fever, chills, or pain in the side or back can indicate that infection is affecting the upper urinary tract. Vaginal discharge or irritation may cause an odour that is not coming from urine.

Drink fluids regularly if you can do so safely, and see whether the colour and odour improve. Do not douche or use scented products to mask genital or urinary odour. If symptoms continue, arrange an assessment and ask whether a urine test is appropriate. Do not take leftover antibiotics, because the right treatment depends on the cause.

Seek prompt care for fever, chills, side or back pain, vomiting, visible blood, pregnancy with urinary symptoms, or worsening pain. Urgent help is needed for confusion, fainting, severe weakness, inability to drink, or very little urine.

Ask whether your symptoms fit a bladder infection or another cause, whether testing is needed, and how to manage discomfort safely. Tell the clinician about pregnancy, kidney conditions, allergies, recent antibiotics, discharge, and new medicines.