Hematuria (Blood in the Urine)
Seeing blood in your urine can be alarming. While many causes are treatable, hematuria should never be ignored. Even a single episode deserves evaluation to rule out serious conditions and protect your long-term health.
Our urology specialists provide prompt, thorough evaluation to identify the cause and create a personalized care plan.
What is a Hematuria?
Hematuria means that red blood cells are present in the urine. The urine may appear:
- Pink
- Red
- Brown or tea-colored
- Or completely normal (blood seen only on testing)
There are two main types:
- Gross Hematuria – blood is visible to the naked eye.
- Microscopic Hematuria – blood is detected only during urine testing.
Both types require medical evaluation.
Why Blood in the Urine Matters
Blood in the urine is a symptom, not a diagnosis. It can be caused by conditions ranging from mild to serious.
Possible causes include:
- Urinary tract infections
- Kidney stones
- Enlarged prostate
- Bladder or kidney cancer
- Kidney disease
- Trauma or injury
- Vigorous exercise
- Certain medications
Because some causes can be serious, evaluation is essential.
Common Symptoms That May Occur with Hematuria
You may also experience:
- Painful urination
- Frequent urination
- Urgent need to urinate
- Back or flank pain
- Pelvic discomfort
- Difficulty urinating
Sometimes, blood in the urine is the only symptom.
Who is at Higher Risk?
Some individuals should seek evaluation promptly, including those who:
- Are over age 35-40
- Have a history of smoking
- Have frequent urinary infections
- Have a history of kidney stones
- Have occupational chemical exposure
- Have a family history of urinary cancers
However, hematuria should be evaluated at any age.
When Should You See a Urologist?
You should schedule an appointment if you notice:
- Blood in the urine even once
- Repeated microscopic blood in urine tests
- Blood in urine with pain or fever
- Blood in urine while taking blood thinners
- Blood in urine after a UTI has been treated
Waiting to see if it goes away can delay diagnosis of serious conditions.
How Hematuria is Diagnosed
Our goal is to identify the source of bleeding anywhere in the urinary tract. This comprehensive approach allows us to evaluate the entire urinary system.
Evaluation may include:
Urine Testing
To look for infection, inflammation, and abnormal cells.
Cystoscopy
A brief in-office procedure using a small camera to examine the bladder and urethra.
Imaging of Kidneys and Urinary Tract
Typically a CT scan or ultrasound to examine kidneys and ureters.
Treatment Depends on Cause
Hematuria treatment focuses on addressing the underlying condition.
Possible treatments include:
- Antibiotics for infections
- Kidney stone treatment
- Enlarged prostate therapy
- Treatment of bladder or kidney tumors
- Monitoring for benign causes
Many causes of hematuria are treatable, especially when detected early.
Why Early Evaluation is Important
Early diagnosis allows us to:
- Detect cancer at early stages
- Prevent kidney damage
- Treat infections promptly
- Relieve urinary symptoms
- Provide peace of mind
Most patients are relieved to learn their cause is treatable once evaluated.
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Many causes are benign, but cancer must always be ruled out.
Dehydration may irritate the urinary tract but still requires evaluation.
Yes. Even one episode should be evaluated.
Strenuous exercise can cause temporary hematuria, but medical evaluation is still recommended.
