[37F] With increased thirst and dark cloudy urine

Patient Description

A 37-year-old female reports experiencing persistent dark and cloudy urine with a sweet smell, along with a sensation of extreme dryness inside and increased thirst. These symptoms have developed gradually over time. The patient also reports blurred vision, fatigue, weakness, and numbness or tingling in her hands or feet. There have been no recent changes in diet, fluid intake, or medications, and she has no known pre-existing conditions, chronic illnesses, or allergies. The patient is not currently taking any medications. There is no family history of diabetes that she is aware of.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you have provided, a possible unifying diagnosis is:

  • Diabetes Mellitus: This condition is characterized by high blood sugar levels over a prolonged period. Symptoms can include increased thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, blurred vision, and sweet-smelling urine. The dark and cloudy urine could be a sign of dehydration or a urinary tract infection, which can be more common in people with diabetes.
    • Typical Treatments and Testing: Diagnosis is usually confirmed through blood tests that measure blood sugar levels, such as fasting blood glucose or HbA1c tests. Treatment often involves lifestyle changes like diet and exercise, and may include medications or insulin therapy to manage blood sugar levels.

What you can do

While it's important to consult a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and treatment plan, here are some steps you can take in the meantime:

  1. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to help manage dehydration and flush out any toxins.
  2. Monitor Your Symptoms: Keep track of your symptoms, including any changes in your urine, thirst levels, and overall well-being. You can use MDandMe to journal your symptoms, track progress, get insights, and share longitudinal medical notes with your provider.
  3. Healthy Diet: Focus on a balanced diet rich in vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Avoid sugary foods and drinks, which can exacerbate symptoms if diabetes is the underlying cause.
  4. Regular Exercise: Engage in regular physical activity, which can help manage blood sugar levels and improve overall health.
  5. Avoid Alcohol and Caffeine: These can contribute to dehydration and may worsen your symptoms.

What you should look out for

Reasons to see a doctor more urgently include:

  • Persistent or Worsening Symptoms: If your symptoms do not improve or worsen despite taking the above measures.
  • Severe Dehydration: Signs include extreme thirst, very dark urine, dizziness, and confusion.
  • Signs of Infection: Such as fever, chills, or pain during urination, which could indicate a urinary tract infection.
  • Unexplained Weight Loss: This can be a sign of uncontrolled diabetes or other serious conditions.

Remember, while this information can be helpful, it is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult a healthcare provider for a formal diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

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4 mo ago


People Also Ask


What are the common symptoms of diabetes mellitus?

Common symptoms of diabetes mellitus include increased thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, blurred vision, and sweet-smelling urine. Other symptoms can include unexplained weight loss, extreme hunger, and slow-healing sores.


How is diabetes mellitus diagnosed?

Diabetes mellitus is typically diagnosed through blood tests that measure blood sugar levels. These tests include fasting blood glucose tests, HbA1c tests, and sometimes an oral glucose tolerance test.


What lifestyle changes can help manage diabetes symptoms?

Lifestyle changes that can help manage diabetes symptoms include maintaining a healthy diet rich in vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains, engaging in regular physical activity, staying hydrated, and avoiding sugary foods and drinks.


Why might someone with diabetes experience sweet-smelling urine?

Sweet-smelling urine in someone with diabetes can be due to the presence of excess glucose in the urine, a condition known as glucosuria. This occurs when blood sugar levels are high and the kidneys excrete the excess sugar into the urine.

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