Urine odor can be a source of concern for many people, especially for those dealing with incontinence or urinary tract infections. Below, we offer several steps to reduce and prevent urine odor, in addition to understanding the causes that can lead to this symptom.
1. Maintain Adequate Hydration
Although it may seem logical to avoid drinking liquids for fear of increasing urinary leakage, dehydration can lead to concentrated urine with a stronger odor. It is recommended that you drink six to eight glasses of water a day (approx. 2 liters). If you have difficulty hydrating with water alone, you can opt for light broths. More diluted urine tends to reduce unpleasant odor.
2. Have Regular Health Check-ups
A strong or unpleasant odor in urine can be a sign of a bladder or urinary tract infection. If you notice a change in your urine odor, it is important to consult a doctor to rule out any underlying infection.
3. Adjust Your Diet
Some foods can alter the smell of urine. For example, asparagus and coffee are known to cause peculiar odors. If you notice changes in odor after consuming certain foods, try to reduce your consumption and observe if the odor decreases.
4. Acidify Your Urine
Acidic urine helps combat bad odor because acidity creates a less favorable environment for the growth of bacteria that are often responsible for unpleasant odors. Along with a balanced diet, use supplements that help acidify your urine.
5. Use Deodorant Sprays
Nodorin® deodorant spray helps neutralize odors and is also antiseptic.
6. Maintain Good Hygiene
Daily hygiene is key to controlling odor. Changing underwear and cleaning properly after each incontinence episode can make a big difference. You can use specific products for intimate hygiene such as Urogelus®.
7. Use Appropriate Incontinence Products
Often, menstrual pads are used to manage incontinence, but these are not designed to retain odor. Specific incontinence products help seal in moisture and prevent the formation of unpleasant odors. Additionally, you can enhance this action by applying Nodorin® spray on the pad or diaper.
8. Clean Urine Collection Devices
If you use reusable collection devices, such as bags or catheters, it is crucial to disinfect them properly. To prevent urine crystals from adhering and causing complications, you can use supplements that have been formulated with ingredients that help maintain urine in optimal condition, preventing mineral accumulation and encrustation in catheters, tubes, and other urological devices. *4
9. Wash Clothes and Sheets Frequently
To prevent urine odor from accumulating in clothes or sheets, wash them regularly using white vinegar or baking soda along with your usual detergent. This will help neutralize any persistent odor.
10. Use Air Fresheners
In bathrooms and areas where urine odor is more noticeable, you can use an air freshener that eliminates the odor instead of masking it with a strong scent.
Sources:
1. Shield Healthcare: "Ways to Reduce Urine Odor"
Link: https://www.shieldhealthcare.com/community/nuestra-comunidad/incontinencia/2019/09/17/formas-de-reducir-el-olor-de-la-orina/
2. MedlinePlus: "Causes of Urine Odor"
Link: https://medlineplus.gov/spanish/ency/article/007298.htm
3. Mayo Clinic: "Urine Odor - Causes"
Link: https://www.mayoclinic.org/es/symptoms/urine-odor/basics/causes/sym-20050704
4. Torrecilla, C., Fernández-Concha, J., Cansino, J. R., Mainez, J. A., Amón, J. H., Costas, S., Angerri, O., Emiliani, E., Arrabal Martín, M. A., Arrabal Polo, M. A., García, A., Reina, M. C., Sánchez, J. F., Budía, A., Pérez-Fentes, D., Grases, F., Costa-Bauzá, A., & Cuñé, J. (2020). Reduction of ureteral stent encrustation by modulating the urine pH and inhibiting the crystal film with a new oral composition: a multicenter, placebo controlled, double blind, randomized clinical trial. BMC urology, 20(1), 65. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12894-020-00633-2.
