Blood in the Urine: Possible Causes and When to Seek Urology Assessment

What blood in the urine means

Blood in the urine may appear pink, red, tea-colored, or may be found only on a urine test. Possible causes include urinary stones, infection, inflammation, enlarged prostate, injury, some medicines, or kidney, bladder, and urinary tract conditions.

Even when some causes are not serious, hematuria should not be ignored, especially in older adults, smokers, people with repeated episodes, or people with other symptoms.

Symptoms that need prompt assessment

Seek hospital care if there is heavy bleeding, clots, inability to pass urine, severe flank pain, fever, chills, dizziness, faintness, or marked weakness. If symptoms are not severe but recur, make an appointment to identify the cause.

Low fluid intake, foods, or medicines may change urine color, but patients should not assume it is harmless if true blood is present or symptoms occur together.

What testing may involve

Assessment often begins with history, examination, and urine testing. Blood tests, ultrasound, or referral may be considered depending on findings. Prepare details about urine color, duration, pain, fever, medicines, stone history, and prior test results.

Patients can start with the clinic's urinary tract, prostate, and male reproductive consultation service. If warning signs are severe, go to hospital first.

Sources reviewed

This article was reviewed against Urology Care Foundation on hematuria and Mayo Clinic on blood in urine