The color of urine can give an indication of a person's hydration levels, though unusual colors or those that come with other symptoms may require medical attention. Dr. Gérald Kierzek, medical director of Doctissimo, addressed this topic in an episode of Les conseils du Docteur Kierzek broadcast on ICI on October 5, 2026. He clarified that while urine color can be a useful indicator, it is not a diagnosis on its own and should be considered alongside other factors. Dr. Kierzek explained that changes in urine color should be evaluated in context. Temporary changes can be caused by foods high in pigment, vitamin supplements, or certain medications. The significance of a particular urine color depends on how long it lasts and whether it is accompanied by other symptoms. A color change that happens only once may not be a cause for concern, but if it persists for several days, recurs frequently, or is associated with symptoms like burning during urination, fever, pain, swollen legs, or yellowing of the skin, it may signal an underlying health issue. According to Dr. Kierzek, pale yellow or straw-colored urine typically indicates that a person is well-hydrated. On the other hand, dark yellow or amber urine may suggest that the urine is more concentrated, which can happen when someone does not drink enough water throughout the day. Completely clear urine is generally not a serious issue and may simply reflect that the person has consumed a large amount of fluids. Dr. Kierzek emphasized that while urine color can provide useful information, it is not a substitute for professional medical advice. If someone is unsure about the significance of their urine color or experiences other symptoms, consulting a healthcare provider is always a good idea.