Urine consists of excess water and waste products that have been filtered from the blood by the kidneys. Its natural yellow color is due to excretion of urochrome, a blood pigment. Depending on the amount of fluids you drink, your urine can range in color from almost clear (diluted) to dark orange (concentrated).
Most changes in urine color are temporary and caused by food colors or medications. However, an abnormal urine color may indicate a serious disease. If you're concerned about the color of your urine, especially if you notice blood in it, consult with your doctor.
Urine color Possible medical and dietary causes
Clear* Excess liquids
Liver disorders, such as acute viral hepatitis or cirrhosis
Bright or neon yellow* Vitamin supplements
Dark yellow or gold* Dehydration
Pink or red* Blood in the urine, such as due to kidney or bladder infection or cancer
Certain foods, such as beets and berries, and food dyes
Some laxatives
Orange* Side effect of certain medications, such as rifampin, doxorubicin (Adriamycin, Rubex), phenazopyridine (Pyridium) and warfarin (Coumadin)
Certain foods and food dyes
Dehydration
Blue or green *Side effect of certain medications, such as amitriptyline and indomethacin (Indocin)
Certain foods, such as asparagus, and food dyes
Dark brown or tea colored* Liver disorders, especially if accompanied by pale stools and jaundice
Side effect of certain medications
Blood in the urine
Certain foods and food dyes
Cloudy or murky urine* Urinary tract infections
Kidney stones
