Blood in the urine can be alarming, but it’s not always a sign of something serious. This condition, known as hematuria, can have many causes—some harmless and others requiring medical attention. If you’ve noticed red or pink discoloration in your urine, it’s important to understand what might be causing it and when to see a doctor.
What Is Hematuria?
Hematuria, or blood in the urine, occurs when red blood cells enter the urinary tract. It may be visible to the naked eye (called gross hematuria) or only detectable under a microscope (microscopic hematuria). Regardless of how it appears, hematuria is a symptom, not a condition itself, and should always be evaluated by a healthcare professional.
Andy Peralta, a Family Nurse Practitioner with Riverside Urology Specialists, explains, “Even if hematuria appears just once, it’s worth discussing with your primary care provider. It can be a sign of a minor issue, but it may also indicate an underlying medical condition that needs to be referred to a urologist.”
What Causes Hematuria?
There are many possible causes of hematuria, ranging from mild to more serious conditions. Some common causes include:
- Urinary tract infections (UTIs): Bacteria entering the urinary tract can cause inflammation and bleeding.
- Kidney infections: Similar to UTIs but affecting the kidneys, these infections may cause fever and back pain.
- Bladder or kidney stones: Hard mineral deposits can irritate the lining of the urinary tract, leading to bleeding.
- Enlarged prostate: In men, an enlarged prostate can press against the urethra, causing blood to appear in the urine.
- Vigorous exercise: Intense physical activity, especially long-distance running, can lead to temporary hematuria.
- Certain medications: Blood thinners, aspirin and some pain relievers can cause urinary bleeding.
- Cancer: Bladder, kidney or prostate cancer can sometimes cause blood in the urine.
“Hematuria is not contagious, and most cases of hematuria are not life-threatening, but it’s essential to rule out serious conditions,” FNP Peralta notes. “Early detection is key, especially for conditions like bladder cancer.”
How is Hematuria Diagnosed?
A health care provider will perform a series of tests to determine the cause of hematuria. These may include:
- Urinalysis: A urine test can detect red blood cells, bacteria, and other abnormalities.
- Imaging tests: Ultrasound, CT scans, or MRIs can help identify structural issues in the kidneys and bladder.
- Cystoscopy: This procedure involves inserting a thin, flexible camera into the bladder to check for abnormalities.
If the cause remains unclear, further testing may be needed to rule out serious conditions.
Treatment Options for Hematuria
Treatment depends on the underlying cause. Some common treatments include:
- Antibiotics for infections like UTIs and kidney infections.
- Lifestyle modifications for exercise-induced hematuria, including staying hydrated and adjusting workout intensity.
- Medications or procedures for conditions like an enlarged prostate or kidney stones.
- Surgical treatments such as surgery, radiation or chemotherapy, if a malignancy is detected.
“If we identify a clear cause, treatment can often resolve hematuria quickly,” says FNP Peralta. “But in some cases, ongoing monitoring is necessary to ensure there are no underlying health risks.”
When to See a Health Care Provider:
If you notice blood in your urine, even once, it’s best to seek medical advice. Immediate medical attention is especially important if hematuria is accompanied by pain, fever or difficulty urinating.
Make an appointment with the Riverside urology team
Early detection and treatment can help prevent complications and ensure peace of mind. If you’re experiencing hematuria, schedule an appointment to get the answers and care you need. The urology team at Riverside Health System is here for all of your urologic needs. Visit the Riverside Urology locations page to find the most convenient location and schedule an appointment today.
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