Understanding Urine Odor: Causes & When to See a Doctor

Urine that smells like dirty socks is usually a sign of dehydration. When you are dehydrated, your urine becomes more concentrated and has a stronger odor. Other causes of urine that smells like dirty socks include:

- Diabetes: High levels of glucose in your urine can cause it to smell sweet or fruity.

- Kidney disease: Kidney disease can cause your urine to smell like ammonia.

- Liver disease: Liver disease can cause your urine to smell musty or sour.

- Urinary tract infection (UTI): A UTI can cause your urine to smell foul-smelling or cloudy.

- Certain medications: Some medications, such as vitamins, can cause your urine to smell different.

If you are concerned about the smell of your urine, it is important to see a doctor to rule out any underlying medical conditions.