When you don’t drink enough water, urine becomes more concentrated – this is reflected in its colour and smell. If urine is dark in colour with a strong smell, this can indicate dehydration.
Highly concentrated urine, caused by low fluid intake, is often strong-smelling. When urine is too concentrated, it also irritates the bladder lining. This can cause urge symptoms, which are characterized by a frequent need to go to the toilet.
Conditions that can lead to dehydration include fever, kidney disease, diarrhoea or vomiting. Anyone can become dehydrated, but some people are at more risk, e.g. small children, the elderly or people with a chronic disease or illness. If you suspect dehydration, in yourself or in others, it’s important to act. Always make sure you, or those you care for, get enough fluids.
Strong smelling urine that is dark and cloudy can be confused with symptoms of a urinary tract infection or so-called Asymptomatic Bacteriuria (see below).