What to Know About Unusual Urine Smells

Smelly urine or urine that has an unusual odor may be a result of diabetes, an infection, eating asparagus, or using certain medications, among other causes. Treatment can depend on the underlying cause.

Urine often has a slight ammonia smell, especially first thing in the morning or when a person is dehydrated.

However, smelly urine can also be a sign of an infection. If the smell does not go away on its own or additional symptoms develop, it is best to contact a doctor.

Common issues that cause smelly urine

Concentrated urine
When urine is highly concentrated, it contains more ammonia and less water. This can cause it to have a strong smell.

Urine tends to be more concentrated when a person is dehydrated. This is often the case first thing in the morning or when someone does not drink enough water throughout the day.

Symptoms of severe dehydration include:

1. dry mouth
2. lethargy
3. muscle weakness
4. headaches
5. dizziness

Foods

Metabolites are any substances that form during digestion. As the body excretes metabolites in urine, some can cause the urine to smell.

For example, when asparagus breaks down during digestion, its metabolites give urine a foul smellTrusted Source.

Medication and supplements
Some medications and supplements that can lead to a change in the odor of urine include:

• high doses of the B vitamins thiamin and choline
• some antibiotics, especially a group called sulfonamides
• some diabetes medications

Medical conditions

Some health issues that lead to smelly urine require short courses of treatment, while others require more lasting attention.

Urinary tract infection

A urinary tract infection (UTI) happens when harmful bacteria proliferate in the urethra, bladder, or kidneys.

Most people have symptoms beyond smelly urine, includingTrusted Source:

• pain when urinating
• a frequent, intense need to urinate
• difficulty fully emptying the bladder

Diabetes

Diabetes medications may change the smell of urine, and so too can the disease — especially if blood sugar levels go uncontrolled.

Some people notice a very sweet smell. This happens when there is too much sugar in the urine.

Other symptoms of diabetes include:

• frequent urination, especially at night
• intense thirst
• fatigue

Can pregnancy cause smelly urine? 

Some people notice a change in the smell of their urine during pregnancy. Various hormonal changes may change the smell of urine — or the person’s sensitivity to smells.

Strategies for reducing the smell

To reduce the smell of urine, a person may try:

• avoiding eating foods that cause urine to smell, especially asparagus
• switching supplements if high levels of thiamin or choline are likely culprits
• drinking plenty of water to support hydration and kidney and urinary tract health
• visiting the bathroom as soon as the urge strikes
• managing any chronic medical conditions, such as diabetes, as carefully as possible, with the guidance of a doctor

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