Urea is converted from ammonia and carbon dioxide in our liver. This is the reason why our urine often has a smell of ammonia. If our bodies are healthy and properly hydrated, then no smell of ammonia is generally present. When our bodies are sick or dehydrated, then our urine often is yellow and may have a heavy ammonia odor. This is a sign that you need to hydrate your body. A heavy ammonia smell in urine may also be a sign of a serious infection or disease. If your urine has an unusually red or green color, burning sensations, discharge or unusual smell, then make an appointment to speak with a medical professional.
Causes of Ammonia Smell in Urine
1. Dehydration
Dehydration is the main cause for yellowish urine and ammonia odors. Drink at least half a gallon, or about two liters, or water a day. If you are able to drink more, then do so. This will bring numerous benefits to your body. The least of which is clear and non-odorous urine. Being hydrated also will reduce the chances of kidney and bladder stones.
2. Infrequent Urination
Having a heavy ammonia smell in your urine may also be caused by infrequent urination. Holding in your urine will cause your bladder to become concentrated. This may also lead to other medical complications in the future. When you realize that you need to use the restroom, then it is important for you to do so. If your work does not allow restroom breaks when you need them, then make effort to urinate during your normal break periods.
3. High-Protein Diets
High-protein diets are a common cause for odorous urine. You will notice excessive bubbling in the toilet water if you have excess protein in your diet. It is important to note the excessively foamy urine may also be a symptoms of more serious medical concerns. Reduced consumption of animal proteins may reduce the odors.
4. Kidney or Bladder Infections and Diseases
Your urinary system may not be working properly. This may lead to an ammonia smell in your urine. If you find that you are experiencing pains, soreness, itching or burning, then you may be experiencing symptoms of these medical concerns. If you are staying hydrated, urinating frequently and eating a healthy diet, but you are still experiencing ammonia smells, then you may want to speak with a medical professional.
5. Diabetes
Diabetes has many symptoms. One of the symptoms is odorous urine. This is caused by the release of ketons which attempts to break down excessive glucose. These molecules will remain present in your urine and may cause odors. It is likely that you will be experiencing other symptoms of diabetes at this time as well. If you are concerned that you have diabetes, then it is important for you to speak with a medical professional.
6. Metabolic Disorders
Metabolic disorders may cause an ammonia smell in your urine. If you find that you are at a loss for why you are experiencing the odor and you are experiencing a lack or excess of energy, focus or memory, then you may want to speak with a medical professional. Medical treatment and medication may help your body to function correctly.
7. Sexually Transmitted Infections
Certain STI’s may cause an odor to appear in your urine. Discharge may be present as well. Itching and burning may also be a common factor. If you find that you are in pain when you urinate or have odorous discharge, then you may have an STI. Antibiotics from your doctor may help to remove an infection of this sort.
8. Pregnancy
It is especially important to drink fluids during pregnancy. Your body is running on overdrive and you are using much more water than normal. Drink extra fluids at this time to protect the health of your child. Dark color and ammonia smells in your urine may be a sign that your developing child is not getting enough water. Pregnancy medications and supplements may also cause urine to have an odd smell. Speak with a doctor about your concerns.
9. Menopause
Many changes occur within the body during and after menopause. Because of a reduction of vaginal fluids, many vaginal flora may be lost. This may lead to infections with in the region. Urinary tract infections may lead to odorous urine. It is important to speak with a medical professional during the time of menopause. They will be able to offer a wide range of medical advice.
Remedies for Ammonia Smell in Urine
1. Drink More Water
Water is an essential part of our diet. Without water, our bodies would simply not function. Water helps prevent headaches and migraines as well as reduce ammonia smells in urine. Reduce your consumption of sugary drinks, as they may lead to serious medical concerns in the future. Alcohol is also not beneficial and will dehydrate you. Many alcoholics experience numerous problems, one of which is odorous urine.
2. Healthy Diet
Too much protein and sugars may lead to these problems. Reduce the amount of animal proteins that you consume. Eradicate processed foods and added sugars from your diet. You may experience more pleasant urination if you move to a plant-based diet. This will also cause your digestive system to be much healthier.
3. Monitor Supplements
Vitamin supplements may cause an excess of vitamins, minerals and oils to be present in your body. Most of the time this is perfectly safe. However, one symptoms of excessive vitamins may be unusual smelling urine. Speak with a medical professional or dietitian about the medications that you are consuming. They may be able to give you the advice that you need.
4. Medications
Medications may also cause unusual odors. If you are concerned about these smells, then speak with your medical professional. They may be able to give you a reason for your concerns. They may also be able to adjust your medication or give you additional medication to prevent any unpleasant odors.