Kidney Problems? Watch for Changes in Urine Color and Odor

Illustration of urine color. (Pexels)

JAKARTA - The kidneys are one of the important organs in the body, which plays a role in cleaning the blood by removing waste products and excess fluid as urine.

Thus, the color and smell of urine can indicate the condition of kidney health. Nephrologist at the University of Chicago Medicine, Patrick Cunningham, MD, said that changes in urine can be a potential indicator of kidney problems.

"Every day, we eat and drink all kinds of things. So, the task of the kidneys is to maintain the perfect balance of all types of chemicals in our bloodstream," said Cunningham, quoted from UChichago Medicine, on Thursday, January 29, 2026.

The kidneys are designed to filter substances from what humans consume, and only retain substances that are important for health. When the condition is not good, the kidneys will have difficulty doing this, the result of which can be seen in the urine.

"If you drink a lot of fluids, the color may be clear. If you wake up in the morning after not drinking fluids overnight, the color will naturally look darker and that's normal," he said.

Urine that smells is a common occurrence. However, if the smell is pungent and unusual, it can be a sign that something is wrong, such as a urinary tract infection.

"However, if you notice something very unusual from the usual smell, it may be a sign of a urinary tract infection," he said.

Urine turbidity can also indicate the possibility of urinary tract infections. Then the color of pink or red urine can indicate various kidney diseases.

"Pink or red color can indicate various kidney diseases or conditions that affect other parts of your urinary tract, such as the bladder," he concluded.

Pink or red urine can also indicate an autoimmune disease, so it is important to see a doctor if you experience this condition.