Could Your Tiredness, Cloudy Urine or Frequent Toilet Trips Mean a Urinary Problem?

Are You Experiencing Changes in Your Urinary Habits?

Do you find yourself needing to visit the loo more often? Noticed your urine is cloudy, unusually dark, or smells strange? Persistent fatigue, lower back discomfort or pain when passing urine – these are all symptoms thousands of people experience across the UK, but they're often overlooked. Sometimes, these changes are due to things like dehydration, exercise, or diet – but they can also signal an issue with your kidneys or urinary tract.

What Could These Urinary Symptoms Mean?

Frequent urination, waking at night to urinate (nocturia), or cloudy urine can be signs of a urinary tract infection (UTI), kidney problems, or even diabetes. Blood in the urine (haematuria) always warrants further assessment. Yet, many causes are harmless and relate to lifestyle, stress, caffeine intake or even medications. Understanding the underlying reason is key.

Why is a Self-Collected Urine Test Useful?

Urine tests analyse chemicals, cells, and bacteria in your urine. A Chemistry, Microscopy & Culture test looks for:

• Infections (e.g. UTIs)
• Kidney function problems
• Diabetes indicators
• Unusual proteins or blood

Testing at home is convenient, private and quick – with results in 1-2 days.

What If I Don’t Want to Test Right Now?

There’s plenty you can do to support urinary health, including:

• Stay well hydrated with water
• Avoid excessive caffeine and alcohol
• Practice good hygiene after using the toilet
• Don’t delay urination when you need to go

When Should I Consider Testing?

If symptoms persist for more than a few days, recur frequently or are bothering you, a test is the next logical step. Order a home urine test kit from Mayfield Clinic, or book an in-person test at one of our UK locations.

Learn More

For further NHS guidance on UTIs or kidney infections, visit the NHS A-Z.