April 21, 2009

Cloudy Urine during Diabetes

Posted in Category : Common Ailments

Cloudy urine and diabetes do not seem to have any direct relationship. There can be several reasons for cloudy urine but diabetes does not really have a direct effect on the color or clarity of urine. Urine color change can be a normal occurrence and is mostly harmless. However, sometimes, cloudy urine can also indicate infection or some underlying disease. But in those cases, you should be seeing additional symptoms along with cloudy urine. Anyway, it is better to consult a doctor and get diagnosed properly if you have seen any suspicious change.

Perhaps the most common reason behind cloudy urine is the presence of excess phosphate in the urine. This condition is known as phosphaturia and is benign in nature. The phosphate level usually goes up in the urine when you have had a large meal or have consumed lot of milk. Phosphaturia can be determined by a simple test – add a few drops of vinegar to a urine sample. If the cloudiness disappears, it is indeed a case of phosphaturia. Since phosphaturia is considered to be harmless no remedy is usually required. Drink an adequate amount of water and avoid milk products to bring down the phosphate naturally.

Urinary tract infections are another common reason for cloudy urine. In this case, along with cloudy urine you will experience symptoms like abdominal pain and a burning sensation while passing urine. The urine is also likely to have a foul smell. If you have any of these symptoms along with cloudy urine, it may be a case of urinary tract infection. To remedy a urinary tract infection you should drink large amounts of cranberry juice. Another helpful remedy for a urinary tract infection is to mix baking soda in a glassful of water and dink the solution. In pregnant women, cloudy urine may also be due to the presence of high level of protein in the urine. This is known as proteinuria and should be investigated properly. Proteinuria, when it is accompanied with high blood pressure may indicate pre-eclampsia. In this case, you should visit a doctor and undergo proper medical treatment. Meanwhile, as a preventive measure, stop eating protein-rich food and increase your daily water intake.

In males, cloudy urine may be due a prostate infection as well. In case of a prostate infection you will experience pain in the abdomen, burning sensation during urination, and a frequent and persistent urge to urinate. If you see any of these symptoms along with cloudy urine, consult a doctor and seek proper diagnosis and medical treatment. Not many home remedies are available for prostate infection, but you can make some dietary changes to better manage your condition. Include foods that contain vitamin C, zinc, and essential fatty acids. As far as possible, avoid alcohol and foods containing excess sugar.