Does Brown Urine Mean I Have Kidney Cancer?

Dr. Alex Lesani, MD Blog Does Brown Urine Mean I Have Kidney Cancer?

Have you been experiencing discolored urine lately, particularly a brownish color? Are you concerned that this may be a sign of something serious, such as kidney cancer?

While it may be alarming to see urine that is strikingly different from the usual yellow or clear-ish yellow color, brown urine isn’t necessarily cause for alarm. The color depends on how concentrated it is, what foods you eat, and which medications you take, if any.

But brown urine can be one of several symptoms of kidney cancer. Dr. Alex Lesani, a urologist located in Las Vegas, Nevada, can evaluate your symptoms to alleviate your concerns and recommend a treatment procedure if needed.

Common causes of brown urine

Berries, beets, and certain beans are just a few examples of foods that can darken the color of your urine. The color can also be affected by how much water you drink: the less hydrated you are, the darker in color it will be. Prescription drugs that contain chloroquine and primaquine, as well as the antibiotics metronidazole and nitrofurantoin and certain laxatives, have been known to darken urine. Extreme exercise can also affect urine color.

Even if you don’t have kidney cancer, you may want to be checked out for a kidney disorder, which can also turn urine dark brown.

When to seek medical attention

Call Dr. Lesani right away if you notice any blood in your urine, as this can be a sign of a urinary tract infection or a kidney stone. These conditions will typically cause you pain or discomfort, but blood in the urine without any pain is a potential sign of cancer.

You should also see Dr. Lesani if your urine is particularly dark or orange-looking, as this can be a sign of a malfunctioning liver.

Common symptoms of kidney cancer

Kidney cancer doesn’t have any obvious symptoms in the earliest stages. As it advances, you may notice urine that is pink or red-looking, persistent back or side pain, extreme fatigue, weight loss, and loss of appetite.

You should definitely schedule a checkup if you have any of these symptoms, as well as a history of kidney cancer in your family.

Learn more about what brown urine says about your health

If you’ve been having dark-colored urine and want to make sure you’re in good health, you can schedule an appointment with Dr. Lesani by calling 702-420-2579. You can also schedule an appointment online.

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