Blood in Your Urine

Blood in Your Urine: Should You Worry?

Seeing blood in your urine — also known as hematuria — can be alarming. But don’t panic! While it’s something you shouldn’t ignore, it is not always a sign of a serious problem. But getting it checked out is always the right move.

What Does It Mean to Have Blood in Your Urine?

Blood can enter the urine anywhere along the urinary tract — from the kidneys (where urine is made) to the bladder and urethra (where urine exits your body).

Blood in your urine can be visible (bright red, pink, or rust-colored) or invisible (blood only detected when the lab tests your urine specimen).

What Can Cause Blood in the Urine?

There are many possible causes. Some are mild and temporary, while others need medical treatment. Common reasons include:

• Bladder infection (UTI)
  You may also notice burning or pain when you urinate.
  
  
• Kidney infection
  You may notice flank pain and fever.
  
  
• Kidney stones
  Stones will cause bleeding as the scratch the delicate lining of the urinary tract. You may notice sharp back or side pain.
  
  
• Certain kidney diseases
  Glomerulonephritis, inflammation of the kidneys’ filters, is an example. • Vigorous exercise
  Especially long-distance running. Typically the hematuria resolves within 24 – 72 hours.
  
  
• Trauma
  For example, a hard fall or direct hit to the back.
  
  
• Enlarged prostate (BPH)
  Common in men over 50.
  
  
• Cancer
  Uncommon, but can involve the bladder, kidney, or prostate. Typically it is painless.

Should You See a Doctor?

Yes. You should always have blood in your urine evaluated. Just because you no longer see blood in your urine does not mean the underlying problem is resolved. Unfortunately, some of the most serious causes of hematuria may come and go quietly. And if the blood in your urine is invisible and seen only microscopically by the lab, that does not mean it is less dangerous. Remember, detecting a condition sooner increases the chance of it being treatable.

Will You Need Tests?

Here are some common tests your provider might order:

• Urine tests –
  To look for infection, blood, or protein.
  
  
• Blood tests
  To check kidney function and look for other clues.
  
  
• CT scan or kidney ultrasound
  To see images of the urinary tract.
  
  
• Cystoscopy
  A tiny camera is used to examine the bladder and urethra
  
  
• Kidney biopsy
  A small sample of kidney tissue is taken to evaluate for kidney disease

What About Treatment?

It all depends on the cause:

• No treatment is needed if it’s due to intense exercise or a mild injury. • Antibiotics are needed if it’s from a bladder or kidney infection.
• Other treatments may be needed for more serious conditions such as kidney disease or tumors.

The Bottom Line

Blood in the urine isn’t always serious, but it is worth a check-up. Most causes are treatable — and catching issues early can make all the difference. Let’s find the answers together.

Want to learn more? Visit www.niddk.nih.gov