Bubbles in Urine

Bubbles in urine is typically associated with the elimination of waste products produced by the body via urine. Urine may attain a bubbly nature due to simple causes like excess flow of urine or minor dehydration, or due to the underlying occurrence of severe medical conditions like kidney disorders, etc.

As this condition tends to have mild or severe underlying causes, patients need to visit a doctor for diagnosis and relevant treatment, if necessary.

Bubbles in urine is not the same as foamy urine. Foamy urine usually occurs due to forceful removal of urine. When urine is forced out of the body, it flows with great speed; it mixes with air matter before it hits the water in the toilet bowl. The combination of aerated urine and the speed at which it hits the water in the toilet bowl eventually results in formation of foamy urine. It is not a serious situation, but people with recurrent or persistent instances of foamy urine need to seek medical attention.

Causes of bubbles in urine

The varied common causes of bubbles in urine, the accompanying signs and symptoms, and the associated treatment options are discussed below.

1. Proteinuria

• One of the most common causes of bubbles in urine, proteinuria is a condition marked by abnormal quantities of proteins in urine. Normal urine of healthy people usually have minor amounts of protein in it; excess protein in urine is usually an indication of some underlying illness. A urine test helps detect the occurrence of excess protein in urine.
• The influx of protein into urine is regulated by glomeruli, a component of the kidneys. The glomeruli can suffer from swelling, inflammation, or other trauma due to varied health problems. This can then result in excess passage of protein into urine. The elevated levels of protein in urine then mix with the constituents of air, thereby causing bubbles in urine.
• Individuals with proteinuria may elicit swelling of the face, arms, legs, and other body areas. Patients need to consult a doctor who will diagnose the underlying cause and treat it as per set medical procedures.

2. UTI or Urinary Tract Infection

• UTIs are another prevalent cause of bubbles in urine. The urinary system is made up of the ureters, urethra, kidneys, and bladder. A urinary tract infectionis usually caused due to infection of the urinary system by bacteria or other germs. The pathogens may migrate to the urinary system via the bloodstream or via contact with the urethra during urination. Bubbles in urine is usually caused due to a combination of gases produced by the infection-causing microorganisms.
• An urgent desire to pass urine, especially at night; burning sensations during urination; painful urination; and smelly urine are some of the common symptoms of a UTI.
• UTIs are generally treated with antibiotics. Doctors will also advise the intake of lots of water to rehydrate the body. Pain medications can help find relief from pain.

3. Vesicocolic Fistula

• Fistula refers to an abnormal link between two body cavities. Vesicocolic fistula refers to an unnatural link between the bladder and colon, and is marked by accumulation of fluids below the skin as well as swelling and inflammation of the bottom half of the bladder. Vesicocolic fistula is usually caused due to Crohn’s disease and tumors. The abnormal fluid deposits may experience bubble formation which later get removed from the body as bubbles in urine.

4. Abnormalities of the kidneys

• One of the functions of the kidneys is to filter urine. Hence, any condition of the kidneys affects its ability to filter protein, which is then passed into the urine causing proteinuria. As mentioned above, bubbles in urine is one of the symptoms of proteinuria.
• Malfunctioning kidneys are usually unable to create concentrated urine. Affected individuals therefore feel a constant urge to pass urine more often than normal. Other symptoms associated with kidney problems and dysfunction include high blood pressure, pain in the sides of the abdomen, fatigue, and diminished appetite, etc.
• Most diseases and ailments of the kidneys are cured with medications. Serious kidney disorders like kidney stones may sometimes need surgical treatment.

5. Pregnancy

• Some women may suffer from enlargement of the kidneys during pregnancy. This triggers increased porousness of the glomeruli, subsequently resulting in passage of excess protein into urine and bubbles in urine.
• It is vital to note that proteinuria in expectant women is a serious condition requiring immediate medical care.

6. Dehydration

• The urine tends to become increasingly concentrated due to dehydration. This can then result in bubbles in urine.
• Dehydration can occur due to varied causes, including excess loss of body fluids during menstruation, long-term exposure to humidity and heat and ensuing increased perspiration, deficient intake of water and other fluids, and intensive workouts, etc.
• People with mild dehydration may also elicit other symptoms such as fatigue, headaches, diminished urine output, and a dry mouth.
• Drinking lots of water, avoiding excess sweating, and following self-care measures to prevent the excess loss of bodily fluids can help treat and prevent minor dehydration. Severe dehydration requires medical attention.