Dr Sule Abdullahi, a Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist at the Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital in Kano has issued a warning about the importance of monitoring the colour and smell of urine. He emphasised that passing out foamy urine could indicate early kidney disease or protein in the urine (proteinuria), which requires urgent medical evaluation.During an interview with news reporters, Dr Abdullahi urged individuals experiencing consistent foamy urine to seek medical attention, highlighting that the colour of urine can reveal important information about a person’s health. The physician, who is also a Senior Lecturer at Bayero University in Kano State, explained that the presence of protein, sugar, or blood in the urine is abnormal......See Full Story>>.....See Full Story>>
“If you notice that your urine is dark, it is an indication that something is wrong, possibly related to kidney problems. Excessive foaming of urine suggests the presence of protein in the urine, indicating a potential kidney problem or urethral infection,” stated Dr Abdullahi.
He further explained that urine contains chemicals and properties that, when analysed, can provide valuable insights into an individual’s health. Two key indicators to look out for in urine are glucose and protein. Glucose should not be present in the urine, as its presence raises suspicion of diabetes mellitus.
Mayo Clinic, an online health portal, advises anyone experiencing persistent foamy urine to consult a physician, as it may be a sign of proteinuria requiring further evaluation. Increased protein in the urine could indicate a serious kidney problem.
Dr Abdullahi highlighted that the presence of protein in the urine is abnormal and suggests underlying issues such as kidney damage from poorly controlled hypertension, diabetes, internal kidney disease, or infections. He emphasised that the kidneys are supposed to filter and prevent the passage of protein into the urine. Therefore, the presence of protein indicates the presence of kidney problems or an infection.
The physician also discussed the presence of blood in the urine, emphasising that it is not normal and requires investigation. Dr Abdullahi explained that blood in the urine may be an indicator of kidney, bladder, or urinary tract problems.
According to MSD Manual, blood in the urine, known as hematuria, can cause the urine to appear pink, red, or brown, depending on the amount of blood, how long it has been in the urine, and the urine’s acidity. Microscopic hematuria, which is blood too small to change the colour of the urine, may be detected through chemical tests or microscopic examination. Hematuria can be associated with other urinary tract disorder symptoms, such as pain in the side or back, lower abdominal pain, urgency to urinate, or difficulty urinating.
In a 2019 article published in an online journal, Pub Med Central
, the authors emphasised that traditionally, foamy urine has been considered a marker for proteinuria. They encouraged clinicians to discuss foamy urine with patients who have relapsing glomerular disease or genetic kidney disorders, as early detection can significantly impact outcomes.
It is essential for individuals to be aware of any changes in the colour or foaming of their urine and seek medical advice if necessary. Early detection and intervention can play a crucial role in managing and treating kidney diseases and related conditions.