What causes urine to be cloudy?

Urine may appear cloudy due to several reasons:

1. Dehydration: When there is a lack of sufficient fluid intake, the urine becomes concentrated, resulting in a cloudy appearance. The concentration of waste products and minerals can give urine a hazy or opaque look.

2. Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): A UTI, caused by the presence of bacteria in the urinary tract, can result in cloudy urine. Bacteria and their byproducts can cause the urine to appear cloudy, and other symptoms such as frequent urination, pain or burning sensation while urinating, and lower abdominal pain may accompany it.

3. Kidney Stones: Cloudy urine could be a sign of kidney stones. Small crystals or particles from kidney stones that are passing through the urinary tract may cause the urine to appear cloudy or murky.

4. Urinary Tract Obstruction: Blockages in the urinary tract, such as from enlarged prostate in men or kidney stones, can lead to cloudy urine. Obstruction can cause urine to become stagnant, increasing the risk of infection and making the urine appear cloudy.

5. Medications: Certain medications, such as vitamin C supplements in high doses, antibiotics, and some chemotherapy drugs, can affect urine color and make it appear cloudy. Always consult with a healthcare provider if you notice a significant change in urine color or consistency after starting a new medication.

6. Diabetes: In people with uncontrolled or undiagnosed diabetes, high levels of glucose in the urine can contribute to a cloudy appearance.

7. Semen in Urine: In men, semen can sometimes mix with urine, making it cloudy or milky-white. This is commonly referred to as retrograde ejaculation.

8. Vaginal Secretions: In women, vaginal secretions or discharge can occasionally mix with urine and result in cloudy urine.

9. Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs): Some STIs, such as gonorrhea and chlamydia, can cause cloudy urine along with other symptoms.

10. Kidney Disease: In advanced stages of kidney disease, the kidneys may lose their ability to properly filter waste products, resulting in cloudy urine.

If you notice a persistent change in the clarity or color of your urine, especially if accompanied by other symptoms like pain, fever, or difficulty urinating, it's important to see a healthcare provider for evaluation and proper diagnosis.