Is yellow urine a symptom of kidney stones?
Aug 08, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Guang
Introduction
Most kidney stone patients have urine color similar to that of healthy individuals. However, if the stones cause a urinary tract infection or if the patient is inadequately hydrated leading to concentrated urine, the urine may appear yellow, often accompanied by symptoms such as frequent urination, urgency, and flank pain, which are manifestations of irritation or infection caused by the stones. If kidney stones do not cause obstruction or infection and the patient maintains adequate fluid intake, the urine can remain a normal light yellow color.
Generally, kidney stones may cause yellow urine, but they may also have no effect on urine color. A specific judgment should be made according to the particular circumstances. If abnormalities occur, timely medical attention is recommended. Detailed analysis is as follows:
Most patients with kidney stones have urine color similar to that of healthy individuals. However, if the stones lead to a urinary tract infection or if the patient is dehydrated, causing concentrated urine, the urine may appear yellow. This is often accompanied by symptoms such as frequent urination, urgency, and flank pain, which are manifestations caused by irritation from the stones or infection.
If kidney stones do not cause obstruction or infection and the patient maintains adequate hydration, the urine may remain a normal light yellow color. In such cases, yellow urine is not directly caused by kidney stones but is more likely related to other factors such as water intake and diet. Therefore, it should not be used as a basis for diagnosing kidney stones.
When observing urine color, consider your own symptoms. If yellow urine is accompanied by flank or abdominal pain, abnormal urination, or other symptoms, prompt medical consultation is advised to determine whether kidney stones or infections are present, so as to avoid delayed treatment.
