Have you ever looked into the toilet and noticed that your urine appears foamy or bubbly?

While it might not seem like a big deal at first, foamy urine can sometimes be a sign of an underlying health issue. In this article, we’ll explore what causes foamy urine, when it’s considered normal, when it might signal a medical condition, and what treatments or steps you should take if it persists.

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What Does Foamy Urine Mean?

Foamy urine simply means urine that looks bubbly or sudsy, almost like soap has been mixed in. It’s often noticed when using the toilet and can appear occasionally or frequently.

Common Causes of Foamy Urine

1. Fast Urination

One of the most common reasons for foamy urine is urinating with a strong stream. This can cause bubbles to form in the toilet bowl due to the force of the flow.

2. Dehydration

When you’re not drinking enough water, your urine becomes more concentrated. This concentrated urine may appear darker and foamy than usual.

3. Presence of Protein (Proteinuria)

Persistent foamy urine could indicate protein in the urine, a condition known as proteinuria. This is often a sign that your kidneys are not filtering properly.

Common causes of proteinuria include:

• Kidney disease

• Diabetes

• High blood pressure

• Autoimmune conditions like lupus

4. Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)

Some UTIs can cause changes in the appearance of urine, including cloudiness or foaminess, often accompanied by a strong odor or burning sensation during urination.

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5. Retrograde Ejaculation (in men)

In some men, a condition called retrograde ejaculation causes semen to travel backward into the bladder instead of out through the penis. This may cause the urine to appear foamy.

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6. Chemicals in the Toilet

Sometimes, foam may simply be due to residues from cleaning products in the toilet bowl interacting with your urine.

Health-Related Causes of Foamy Urine

If your foamy urine is persistent and accompanied by other symptoms, it could be a sign of a serious health condition, including:

• Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD): Kidney damage causes protein to leak into the urine. This is a major warning sign and should be evaluated immediately.

• Diabetes: Diabetes can damage blood vessels in the kidneys, leading to protein leakage and foaminess in urine.

• High Blood Pressure: Over time, hypertension can harm kidney function, increasing the risk of proteinuria and foamy urine.

When to See a Doctor

You should consult a healthcare professional if:

• The foamy urine persists for more than a few days

• You notice swelling in your hands, feet, face, or abdomen

• You have frequent urination, especially at night

• Your urine is dark, has a foul odour, or appears cloudy

• You’re experiencing other symptoms like fatigue, nausea, or shortness of breath

To determine the cause, your doctor may recommend:

• Urinalysis to check for protein, blood, or infection

• Blood tests to assess kidney function

• Imaging tests (like an ultrasound) to check the kidney structure

• 24-hour urine collection for accurate protein measurement

Treatment depends on the underlying cause:

• Dehydration – Drink more water and stay hydrated

• Proteinuria/Kidney disease – Medications like ACE inhibitors or ARBS, lifestyle changes, manage diabetes or BP

• UTI – Antibiotics prescribed by a doctor

• Retrograde ejaculation – May be treated with medications or fertility support if needed

• Diabetes/Hypertension – Manage with proper medication, diet, and exercise.

While occasional foamy urine may not be a cause for concern, persistent or frequent foaming, especially when paired with other symptoms, could point to an underlying health condition. It’s always better to check with your doctor if you’re unsure. Early detection and management can prevent serious complications, especially when it comes to kidney health.

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On April 21, the world woke up to news of the death of Pope Francis. The death was announced by the Vatican who said he died at the age of 88. Pope Francis was the first Latin American leader of the Roman Catholic Church.

He suffered various ailments in his 13-year reign, with severe complications in recent weeks. With his death, here is a look at what usually happens when the Pope dies.

Official declaration 

Upon the pope’s death, the Camerlengo (Chamberlain) is responsible for confirming the passing. In the past, this involved calling the pope’s name three times; however, this practice has been discontinued, and medical confirmation is now standard. The Camerlengo then locks and seals the papal apartments and destroys the official seal and ring of the Pope to prevent its misuse, symbolizing the end of the pope’s authority.

READ ALSO: Pope Francis, a Janitor who turned Pope, dies at 88 — A look at his life, legacy and impact on Nigerian Catholics

Nine-Day mourning period (Novendiale)

After the Pope’s death is confirmed, the Church officially enters a nine-day mourning period known as the Novendiale. During this time, the pope’s body lies in state at St. Peter’s Basilica, allowing the faithful to pay their respects. Each day during the mourning period, an honorary Mass is celebrated for the deceased pope in Rome, led by a different cardinal every day. 

Sede Vacante

Next, the Church enters a period known as sede vacante (“the seat is vacant”). During this time, a senior cardinal takes over day-to-day affairs until a new pope is elected. It is said that in this case, this will be Irish-American Kevin Farell and he will be in charge of overseeing the administration of the Church, though no significant decisions are made until a new pope is elected. The Camerlengo assumes administrative duties, ensuring the continuity of the Church’s operations. 

Funeral

For the Pope’s funeral, cardinals from around the world are expected to hold a series of meetings known as “general congregations”. This is when they will decide a date for his burial. The date has to be between the fourth and sixth day after the Pope’s death. While Pope Francis’s immediate predecessors were buried in St Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican, his burial will be different. Before his death, Pope Francis requested a simpler funeral with a wooden and zinc coffin and burial at Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica in Rome, rather than the traditional Vatican Grottoes.  

READ ALSO: How is a new pope elected? Everything you should know [Pulse Explainer]

The Conclave

Between 15 and 20 days after the pope’s death, the College of Cardinals convenes in a conclave to elect a new pope. Only cardinals under the age of 80 are eligible to vote. The cardinals are secluded in the Sistine Chapel, cut off from the outside world to prevent external influence. Voting occurs in multiple rounds, with a two-thirds majority required to elect a new pope. If no decision is reached after several rounds, black smoke is emitted from the Sistine Chapel; white smoke indicates a successful election. 

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Announcement and Inauguration

Once a new pope is elected, the Dean of the College of Cardinals asks if he accepts the role. Upon acceptance, the new pope chooses a papal name. The Senior Cardinal Deacon then steps onto the grand balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica and proclaims to the awaiting crowd: “Habemus Papam” (“We have a pope”). The newly elected pope then appears to greet the faithful, offering his first blessing as the leader of the Catholic Church. 

READ ALSO: From Murder to Lust: The worst popes in history and their shocking scandals

Nigeria is a democratic country but that does not mean it doesn’t have traditional rulers who play a huge role in the country. Some of these traditional rulers known as First Class Kings, are particularly important in preserving cultural heritage and influencing socio-political decisions in their respective states.

These monarchs, while holding ceremonial positions, wield significant authority and respect within their domains and beyond.

Here are some of the more popular first class kings we have in Nigeria:

Sultan of Sokoto – Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar IV

The Sultan of Sokoto is the spiritual leader of Muslims in Nigeria and head of the Sokoto Caliphate. He holds immense religious and cultural influence, particularly in Northern Nigeria.

READ ALSO: Meet one of the longest serving kings in Nigeria who has ruled for over 6 decades

Ooni of Ife – Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi (Ojaja II)

The Ooni is seen as the traditional ruler and monarch of the people of Ile-Ife. Oba Ogunwusi has been instrumental in promoting Yoruba culture and fostering unity among various ethnic groups. 

Oba of Benin – Oba Ewuare II

The Oba of Benin presides over the ancient Benin Kingdom. He is also seen as the custodian of the culture of the Edo people. Oba Ewuare II who was crowned in 2016 is known for his efforts in cultural preservation and the repatriation of Benin artifacts. 

Emir of Kano – Muhammadu Sanusi II

The Emirate of Kano is one of the most prominent in Nigeria. Emir Sanusi was reinstated in 2024 and has been a key figure in promoting peace and Islamic values in the region. 

Obi of Onitsha – Igwe Nnaemeka Alfred Achebe

In the southeast, there is the traditional ruler of Onitsha, Igwe Achebe who plays a significant role in the cultural and economic development. He is seen as a representative of the people of Onitsha to the state and federal levels of government

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INTERESTING: See why this Yoruba king married 6 wives in two months

Oba of Lagos – Oba Rilwan Akiolu I

The Oba of Lagos, also known as the Eleko of Eko, is the traditional ruler of the region. Oba Akiolu is seen as the ceremonial head of Lagos, Nigeria’s commercial hub, and he holds considerable influence in both traditional and political affairs. 

Olubadan of Ibadan – Oba Akinloye Olalere Owolabi Olakulehin

The Olubadan of Ibadan which translates to Lord of Ibadan, is the paramount ruler of Ibadan, one of the largest cities in West Africa. He plays a vital role in the governance and cultural preservation of Ibadan 

Alaafin of Oyo – Oba Abimbola Akeem Owoade 

The Alaafin of Oyo is the custodian of the Oyo palace. It is said that The Alaafin of Oyo originated from one of Oduduwa’s seven grandsons who later became Kings.

READ ALSO: Which King has the most beautiful palace in Nigeria?

Olu of Warri – Ogiame Atuwatse III

Leading the Itsekiri people of Delta State, Ogiame Atuwatse III has been a proponent of cultural renaissance and economic development since his coronation in 2021. 

Dein of Agbor – Benjamin Keagborekuzi I

The Dein of Agbor is another of Nigeria’s first-class kings. The current Dein of Agbor ascended the throne at the age of two, and he is recognized for his youthful leadership and commitment to the progress of his kingdom in Delta State. 

Other first-class kings/chiefs who may not be as popular but are equally revered include:

• Shehu of Borno – Traditional ruler of Borno, descendant of the Kanem-Bornu Empire.

• Emir of Zazzau (Zaria) – A key traditional ruler in Kaduna State.

• Lamido of Adamawa – Head of the Adamawa Emirate.

• Emir of Ilorin (Kwara)

• Emir of Lafia (Nasarawa)

• Emir of Katsina

• Emir of Bauchi

• Emir of Gwandu (Kebbi)

• Aku Uka of Wukari (Taraba)

• Awujale of Ijebuland – Paramount ruler of Ijebu (Ogun State).

• Alake of Egbaland – Traditional ruler of Abeokuta (Ogun State).

• Olowo of Owo – Important monarch in Ondo State.

• Deji of Akure – Paramount ruler of Akure (Ondo State).

• Olowu of Owu (Ogun)

• Orangun of Oke-Ila (Osun)

• Osemawe of Ondo

• Soun of Ogbomoso

• Eleruwa of Eruwa (Oyo)

• Alara of Ilara (Lagos)

• Ayangburen of Ikorodu (Lagos)

• Eze Aro (Arochukwu) – Head of the Arochukwu Kingdom (Abia State).

• Amanyanabo of Opobo – A key Niger Delta monarch (Rivers State).

• Amayanabo of Nembe – Prominent ruler in Bayelsa State.

• Eze Uzu of Awka (Anambra)

• Eze Nri (Anambra – ancient spiritual king)

• Obi of Aboh (Delta)

• Pere of Isaba (Delta)

• Amanyanabo of Okrika (Rivers)

• Amanyanabo of Bonny (Rivers)

• Tor Tiv – Paramount ruler of the Tiv people (Benue State).

• Ochi’Idoma – Traditional ruler of the Idoma people (Benue State).

• Attah of Igala – Head of the Igala Kingdom (Kogi State).

ADIEU! BREAKING: Pope Francis dies at 88