Green urine can result from several causes, most of which are not serious, but some may require medical attention.
Common Causes of Green Urine
- Food dyes : Consuming foods or drinks with green or blue dyes (e.g., cereals, candies, ice cream) can cause green urine. This usually resolves within a day as the body clears the dyes
- Medications : Certain drugs can turn urine green, including:
- Indomethacin (used for pain and arthritis)
- Amitriptyline (an antidepressant)
- Cimetidine (for ulcers and acid reflux)
- Propofol (an anesthetic used during surgery)
- Methylene blue (found in some pain relief meds and surgical procedures)
- Triamterene (a diuretic) This discoloration is generally harmless and temporary
- Personal care products : Swallowing products like Listerine mouthwash containing thymol or other dyes can also cause green urine
Medical Conditions That May Cause Green Urine
- Urinary tract infection (UTI) : Some UTIs caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacteria produce a blue-green pigment called pyocyanin, which can turn urine green. Symptoms often include pain or burning during urination, frequent urination, abdominal or back pain, cloudy or foul-smelling urine, and fever. UTIs require antibiotic treatment
- Liver disease : Presence of bilirubin in urine, a sign of liver dysfunction, can cause greenish urine. Other symptoms may include nausea, fatigue, swelling, itching, and jaundice. Persistent green urine with these symptoms warrants medical evaluation
- Rare genetic conditions : Familial benign hypercalcemia can cause blue or green urine in children but is uncommon
When to See a Doctor
- If green urine persists beyond a couple of days without an obvious cause like food or medication.
- If accompanied by symptoms such as pain during urination, fever, fatigue, or jaundice.
- If you suspect a UTI or liver disease.
In most cases, green urine is harmless and temporary, often linked to diet, medications, or personal care products. However, persistent or symptomatic cases should be evaluated by a healthcare professional
. Summary: Green urine typically results from food dyes, certain medications, or personal care products and is usually harmless. It can also signal a urinary tract infection or liver disease, especially if accompanied by other symptoms. Persistent green urine should prompt medical consultation.
