In a lot of ways, you don’t really want to notice the smell of your pee. 

Not only is the scent pretty unpleasant at the best of times, but particularly stinky number ones can be a sign you’re not hydrated enough.

Other times, it can reveal nothing more than the fact you ate a lot of asparagus or drank a little too much coffee.

The NHS states that certain medications and vitamin B6 supplements can contribute to stronger urine odor. However, changes in urine smell can sometimes indicate more serious health conditions such as diabetes, liver issues, and kidney stones.

According to MedlinePlus, the health information resource from the National Library of Medicine, while most alterations in urine odor aren’t necessarily linked to disease and tend to resolve on their own, some changes should prompt a consultation with your GP.

Which odors warrant concern, and what could they signify? MedlinePlus outlines potential causes for various urine smells:

FOUL ODOUR: This may stem from bacterial infections.

SWEET SMELL: This could indicate uncontrolled diabetes or a rare metabolic disorder.

MUSTY ODOUR: This may be related to liver disease or certain metabolic conditions.

Additionally, conditions that can lead to abnormal urine odors include bladder fistulas, urinary tract infections (UTIs), dehydration, poorly managed diabetes, liver failure, and ketonuria. The NHS also notes that these odors can sometimes signal kidney stones.

A UTI may also cause urine to have a stronger odor, often accompanied by cloudy urine and discomfort during urination.

When should you consult a GP? MedlinePlus recommends seeing a doctor if you notice a bad odor along with possible signs of a UTI. Meanwhile, the NHS suggests making an appointment if you observe smelly urine and experience:

- Sudden or increased urgency to urinate, especially at night

- Pain or burning sensations during urination

- Cloudy urine

You should seek urgent medical attention or call 111 if you experience:

- Blood in your urine

- Lower abdominal pain

- Pain in your back under the ribs

- Persistent fatigue or feeling unwell

- Confusion or agitation

- A very high temperature, or feeling hot and shivery

- A significantly low temperature.

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