Foamy Urine: What It Means and When to Be Concerned
By Dr. David Samadi
Noticing foam in your urine can be surprising, but in many cases, it’s harmless. The speed and force of urination, cleaning products in the toilet, or mild dehydration can all cause temporary foaming. However, persistent foamy urine may indicate an underlying health issue, particularly involving the kidneys or urinary tract.
Understanding what causes foamy urine and recognizing when to seek medical attention can help you take the proper steps toward maintaining your health.
When Should You Be Concerned?
Occasional foamy urine is usually nothing to worry about, especially if you’re well-hydrated and don’t have other symptoms. However, if the foaminess becomes frequent or is accompanied by other concerning signs, it may be time to consult a doctor.
Symptoms That May Accompany Foamy Urine:
- Swelling in the hands, feet, face, or abdomen (a sign of fluid retention due to kidney issues)
- Fatigue and persistent low-energy
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea or vomiting
- Difficulty sleeping
- Changes in urine output (urinating more or less than usual)
- Cloudy or darker-colored urine
For men, additional symptoms may include:
- Dry orgasms (little to no semen release)
- Infertility or trouble conceiving with a partner
It’s essential to seek medical advice when noticing foamy urine along with other symptoms.
Several factors can contribute to foamy urine, such as being mildly dehydrated to more serious medical conditions:
Dehydration and Concentrated Urine
Insufficient fluid intake can lead to your urine becoming more concentrated, which can lead to foaming. This is common in pregnancy or after strenuous activity when fluid levels are low.
Protein in the Urine (Proteinuria)
An excess of protein in the urine—often due to kidney disease or diabetes—can cause persistent foaming. The kidneys are the main organ for filtering waste, and if they are not functioning properly, then protein can leak into urine. If you frequently experience foamy urine, a simple urine test can check for protein levels.
Retrograde Ejaculation (In Men)
This is a condition in which semen flows backward into the bladder instead of exiting through the penis, retrograde ejaculation can cause foamy urine. This condition may also lead to infertility.
Amyloidosis
A rare disease in which abnormal protein builds up in organs, including the kidneys, leading to urinary symptoms and fluid retention.
Medications
Certain drugs, such as phenazopyridine (Pyridium, AZO Standard, Uristat, AZO) —commonly used to relieve urinary tract discomfort—can cause urine to appear foamy.
When to See a Doctor
If your foamy urine persists, especially if accompanied by other symptoms like swelling, fatigue, or changes in urination, it’s essential to schedule an appointment with a urologist or primary care physician. A simple urine test can help determine if protein is present, and further tests can assess kidney function and rule out more serious conditions.
Don’t ignore ongoing symptoms. Taking action early can help protect your kidney and urinary health. If you’re concerned about foamy urine, talk to a healthcare professional for the necessary answers.
Dr. David Samadi is the Director of Men’s Health and Urologic Oncology at St. Francis Hospital in Long Island. He’s a renowned and highly successful board-certified Urologic Oncologist Expert and Robotic Surgeon in New York City, regarded as one of the leading prostate surgeons in the U.S., with a vast expertise in prostate cancer treatment and Robotic-Assisted Laparoscopic Prostatectomy. Dr. Samadi is a medical contributor to NewsMax TV and is also the author of two books, The Ultimate MANual, Dr. Samadi’s Guide to Men’s Health and Wellness, and Prostate Cancer, Now What? A Practical Guide to Treatment, Diagnosis, and Recovery, both available online both on Amazon and Barnes & Noble. Visit Dr. Samadi’s websites at robotic oncology and prostate cancer 911.