13 Body Signals Indian Doctors Wish You Wouldn't Ignore

4. Changes in urination — frequency, colour, or pain

Alterations in urination patterns—more trips to the bathroom, very dark or foamy urine, pain during urination, or blood in urine—are important signals. Frequent urination and extreme thirst can be early signs of diabetes, while foamy urine may signal protein loss from kidney disease. Pain or burning typically points to urinary tract infection or stones, and visible blood always needs immediate assessment. In South Asia, diabetes and chronic kidney disease rates are rising, making urine changes a common first clue. A home urine dipstick and a capillary blood sugar check are good first steps, followed by formal urine and blood testing. See a physician when urine changes persist beyond a few days, when you have fever or flank pain, or when swelling in the legs or face accompanies abnormal urine findings. Early treatment helps prevent complications and preserves kidney function.