Urine color can give you a rough idea of hydration, but it cannot diagnose a disease by itself.
Pale yellow/straw: generally suggests good hydration.
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Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Trust
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Dark yellow/amber: often means your urine is concentrated and you may need more fluids.
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Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Trust
Orange: can occur with significant dehydration, but medicines and other causes can also change urine color.
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Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Trust
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Cloudy: may occur with a urinary infection, particularly if you also have burning, frequent urination, fever, or pain.
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nhs.uk
Pink/red: can indicate blood. Although foods such as beetroot and some medicines can also cause red or pink urine, unexplained blood should be medically checked.
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nhs.uk
Dark brown: can be a sign of severe dehydration, but it can also have other causes. Persistent brown urine should be assessed.
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North Tees NHS Trust
Very clear: usually means you’re well hydrated, although constantly drinking excessive amounts of water isn’t necessary.
One thing people often overlook: vitamins, medications, alcohol, and certain foods can change urine color without there being a serious problem.
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North Tees NHS Trust
If you have red or brown urine, blood, severe pain, fever, or you’re producing much less urine than usual, don’t rely on color alone—seek medical advice.
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nhs.uk
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