Which characteristic of urine might indicate a health issue such as UTI?

The presence of cloudiness or a strong odor in urine can indeed indicate a potential health issue such as a urinary tract infection (UTI). When bacteria invade the urinary system, they can alter the usual characteristics of urine. Cloudy urine may result from the presence of white blood cells, bacteria, or other substances that should not be in healthy urine. Similarly, a strong, often foul-smelling urine can be a sign of infection due to the metabolic byproducts of the bacteria involved.

In healthy individuals, urine is typically clear to slightly cloudy and has a mild scent. Consistent clarity and light coloring typically suggest proper hydration and absence of infection. The sweet odor can be associated with conditions such as diabetes rather than a UTI. Darker urine may indicate dehydration or other issues, but it is not as specific in pointing towards a UTI as cloudiness or strong odor would be. Therefore, changes in color and smell can provide important clues about a person's urinary health and possible infections.