It’s concerning to see blood in your urine, and it may be a sign of a serious issue. However, there are many reasons you might find blood in your urine, and many can be easily managed and treated by a qualified healthcare professional. Identifying the cause of your issue is the first step toward recovery. Here are some of the most common reasons for blood in your urine.
What does blood in your urine mean?
Blood in your urine is called gross hematuria. It’s possible to have blood in your urine that can’t be seen without proper testing and a microscope. This is known as microscopic hematuria. While there are many different causes, blood in your urine is not normal and is a cause for concern.
Depending on the severity of your issue, the amount of blood, and the underlying cause, treatment may look different. Regardless of whether you have gross hematuria or microscopic hematuria, it means that something is wrong in your body, and red blood cells are making their way into your urinary tract. It does not take very much blood to discolor your urine, but if the blood begins to clot, you may feel pain.
Consult your doctor immediately if you see blood in your urine. It is important to identify the cause of the blood so changes can be made and treatment can take place.
Common Reasons for Blood in Your Urine
While there may be several reasons for blood in your urine, typically, it is due to one of several common issues. Here are some of the more common problems and how you can identify them.
1. Urinary Tract Infections
Urinary tract infections, or UTIs, happen when bacteria enter through the urethra and multiply in the bladder. UTIs typically result in the frequent need to urinate, pain or burning during urination, or a strong-smelling odor during urination. While UTIs don’t typically cause blood in the urine, they may result in microscopic hematuria. Meaning, that if you are experiencing any of the other issues, you should schedule an appointment with your doctor for further testing.
2. Kidney Infections
Kidney infections are usually the result of the bacteria from a UTI traveling further up your urinary tract and entering your kidneys. While the symptoms of a kidney infection are similar to a UTI, they may also cause fever, flank pain, and bloody urine.
3. Kidney Stones
If you’re dehydrated, your concentrated urine may cause crystals to form in your kidneys or bladder. These small “stones” may be passed without you ever knowing about them. However, if they become too large to pass or cause a blockage in your urinary tract, they can lead to severe pain and complications. Complications from kidney stones can lead to both gross and microscopic hematuria.
4. Enlarged Prostate
As men get older, the prostate gland, which is located on top of the urethra, and just below the bladder, may become enlarged. As it enlarges, it presses against the urethra, restricting the flow of urine. This may also cause blood to appear in your urine.
5. Kidney Issues
Aside from kidney infections, your kidneys can become damaged from an injury or disease. A strong blow to the kidney is one of the most common reasons for blood in your urine. Furthermore, there are several kidney diseases that may cause the same symptoms. Talk to your doctor about whether or not you should be tested for viral infections that may result in kidney problems.
6. Cancer
Cancer of the kidneys, bladder, or prostate may cause blood to appear in your urine. Although blood in your urine does not automatically mean you have cancer, you should consult your healthcare professional about possible testing. Blood in your urine is not an early sign of cancer and likely won’t appear until your problem has become more severe.
FAQs about Blood in Urine
Is blood in the urine an emergency?
Blood in your urine can be a sign of a serious health problem and should NOT be ignored. Make an appointment with your doctor as soon as possible so tests can be run to determine the cause. Even if the problem is intermittent, you should still get tested.
Can lack of water cause blood in urine?
Dehydration can cause your urine to darken but this is not necessarily due to the presence of blood in your urine. However, frequent dehydration can damage the kidneys which can lead to bleeding. Consult with a healthcare professional if you are seeing color changes in your urine.
What color is urine when blood is present?
Blood in your urine can be visible or it may not be visible. If you see red, pink, or brown tinting then you should see a healthcare professional for testing. If your urine is cloudy, this can also be a sign that white blood cells or blood are present.
Fast Access to Healthcare Professionals
There are many causes of blood in your urine, and only some of the more common reasons are listed here. If you are experiencing these issues, the best course of action is to schedule an appointment with your doctor. A great way to do that is to consult UBERDOC. With UBERDOC, you can quickly and easily set up a consultation to find out how severe and serious your issues are. This is a quick and convenient way to establish the best course of action. UBERDOC allows you to get the care you need in an easy and affordable way. We offer both in-person and telemedicine appointments, ensuring that you have access to the healthcare you need no matter how busy or restrictive your day is. To find out more about our services and how UBERDOC can help you, contact us today!
