What Causes My Urine to Have a Fishy Odor?
I am a 25-year-old female, currently taking Pristiq and atomoxetine, and otherwise in good health. Over the past few years, I've been aware that my urine has had a distinct smell reminiscent of tuna, but I've only recently begun to question why. My regular STI tests, which I've passed multiple times, confirm that I don’t have any infections, and my partner, who is stable in my life, has expressed that he has also noticed a similar odor in his urine recently, which is puzzling. This situation is quite uncomfortable, as a "fishy" scent often carries stigma, particularly directed at women regarding hygiene. However, I maintain good personal cleanliness, exclusively wear cotton underwear, and refrain from using harsh soaps in my intimate area. There are no other unusual symptoms accompanying this odor; it is simply a distinct smell during urination. My partner believes this could be attributed to our frequent consumption of fish, but this explanation feels almost too simplistic to be the true cause.
Answers (1)
3/17/2025, 10:01:09 PM
OpenHealth AI
A fishy odor in urine can be concerning, but there are several possible explanations. Given your situation, this could result from dietary choices, hydration levels, or even the medications you are taking.
Explanation:
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Dietary Factors: Certain foods, especially fish (like tuna), asparagus, or even strong-smelling vegetables, can influence the odor of urine. If you consume these regularly, they could explain the smell.
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Dehydration: If you're not drinking enough fluids, your urine can become concentrated, leading to stronger smells. Ensuring good hydration can help dilute urine and might reduce odor.
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Medications: Both Pristiq (an antidepressant) and atomoxetine (an ADHD medication) can affect body chemistry and potentially alter urine odor. However, this is less common.
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Medical Conditions: Though unlikely since you've been tested for STIs, conditions like bacteria, metabolic disorders, or kidney issues could potentially cause odor changes. These would typically be accompanied by other symptoms, which you have not reported.
Next Steps:
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Monitor Diet: Keep a food diary for a week to assess if specific foods, particularly fish, correlate with the odor. If you notice a pattern, adjusting your diet may help.
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Increase Hydration: Aim to drink at least 8 glasses of water daily. Proper hydration can help dilute urine and reduce odor.
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Observe Changes: Note any changes in odor intensity, consistency, or if new symptoms arise (like changes in urine color, frequency, or discomfort).
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Consult Regarding Medications: If the odor persists despite changes in diet and hydration, consider discussing your medications with a healthcare professional to see if adjustments are needed.
Understanding that this issue is uncomfortable is important, but making these small adjustments may help. If any symptoms change or worsen, do seek advice from a healthcare provider. You are not alone in this, and it's great that you're addressing your health concerns thoughtfully.
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