Foamy urine: A warning sign of kidney disease or diabetes? Expert explains causes and precautions

Noticing foam in your urine once in a while isn’t always a cause for concern. It can simply indicate dehydration — when your body lacks enough water, urine becomes concentrated and may appear foamy. However, if the foam appears every time you urinate or persists for several days, it could signal an underlying health problem that requires medical attention.

When foamy urine becomes serious
If foamy urine is accompanied by other symptoms like frequent urination, dark yellow urine, swelling of the face or feet, fatigue, or loss of appetite, it may point to kidney dysfunction. Ignoring these warning signs can increase the risk of serious complications such as kidney failure.

Expert opinion: What causes foamy urine?
According to Dr. Rohit Kapoor from Max Hospital, persistent foamy urine may indicate chronic kidney disease (CKD), diabetes, or high blood pressure. When the kidneys’ filtering units (nephrons) are damaged, they allow protein to leak into the urine — a condition known as proteinuria, which often causes foam.

Other possible causes include urinary tract infections (UTIs), liver disease, and high-protein diets. In some cases, overconsumption of protein supplements can also trigger foamy urine.

If the problem continues for more than a week or two, doctors recommend undergoing tests such as a urine protein test, blood sugar test, and kidney function test to determine the cause.

Prevention tips to maintain kidney health

• Drink 7–8 glasses of water daily to stay hydrated.

• Consume protein in moderation, especially supplements.

• Keep blood sugar and blood pressure under control.

• Get regular urine and blood tests, especially if you have diabetes or hypertension.

• Limit processed and salty foods that strain the kidneys.

• Don’t ignore persistent symptoms — consult a doctor promptly.