Proteinuria: This is a condition in which protein is released in the
urine in high amounts. Protein is normally released in the urine but
in small amounts. When these levels become high, the urine can appear
foamy. This can be a sign of an impending kidney problem as the
kidneys are not filtering urine properly and thus release too much
protein. Untreated high blood pressure and diabetes may contribute
to kidney filtration problems, along with other factors like toxins,
infections, or trauma to the kidneys.
Urinary tract infection: When bacteria enter any part of the urinary tract system you may develop an infection. Along with pain,
higher urinary frequency and urgency, and burning while urinating,
your urine may appear foamy as well. You should see a doctor if you
begin to experience UTI symptoms because the earlier the treatment
begins the less of a risk of complications you will have.
Kidney disease: Foamy urine can be a sign of kidney disease resulting from kidney stones or diabetes. A simple urine test will
determine whether you have kidney disease.
Preeclampsia during pregnancy: Preeclampsia during pregnancy results in swollen legs, proteinuria, high blood pressure, and
headaches. This can be a fatal condition to both mother and fetus, and
all symptoms can worsen with its progression.
Vesicocolic fistula: A fistula is an abnormal connection which in this case develops between the bladder and the colon. This allows air,
gas, and bacteria to travel into the bladder. Along with foamy urine,
a person with vesicocolic fistula will have frequent infections.
Symptoms may be similar to those of a UTI.
Rapid urination: Urinating too quickly or forcing urine to come out can be responsible for its foamy appearance. This is because air
is introduced into the urine stream causing the bubbles. This type of
foam typically disappears within a few minutes.
Concentrated urine: If you’re mildly dehydrated, the urine may become more concentrated, so it appears foamy. This can easily be
resolved by drinking more fluids.
Toilet cleaner: Sometimes urine reacts with toilet cleaner which causes bubbles. If you’re unsure if your urine is foamy or whether
it’s the toilet cleaner causing it to foam, you can urinate in a
separate container that has not been treated with the cleaner and
watch for foam. Semen in urine: After sex, small amounts of semen are
left in the male urethra. This small amount won’t cause foamy urine
unless the bladder sphincter malfunctions, causing the semen to go
back into the bladder. In this case, urine will appear foamy.
Other causes: Other causes of foamy urine include amyloidosis, cancer, chemical poisoning, diabetes, heart conditions like an
enlarged heart, high blood pressure, infections, kidney failure, liver
disease, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, sarcoidosis, and sickle cell
anemia.