Causes of Blood in Urine
Find out what causes blood in urine, from urinary tract infections and kidney stones to more serious conditions like cancer. Learn symptoms, when to see a doctor, and how to manage hematuria effectively.
Written by Dr. Rohinipriyanka Pondugula
Reviewed by Dr. Shaik Abdul Kalam MD (Physician)
Last updated on 11th Aug, 2025
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Noticing blood in your urine can be alarming, but it’s important to stay calm and understand what might be causing it. Medically known as hematuria, blood in urine can range from being harmless to a sign of an underlying health issue. This article will help you understand the possible causes, symptoms, and when to seek medical attention.
What Does Blood in Urine Mean?
Blood in urine can appear in two forms:
1. Visible (Gross) Hematuria: The urine looks pink, red, or brown due to visible blood.
2. Microscopic Hematuria: Blood is present but not visible to the naked eye; detected only through lab tests.
While it may not always indicate a serious problem, it should never be ignored.
Common Causes of Blood in Urine
Several conditions can lead to hematuria. Some are minor, while others require medical attention.
1. Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)
Bacteria entering the urinary tract can cause infections in the bladder (cystitis) or kidneys (pyelonephritis).
Symptoms: Burning sensation while urinating, frequent urge to urinate, cloudy or foul-smelling urine.
2. Kidney or Bladder Stones
Hard mineral deposits in the kidneys or bladder can irritate the urinary tract, leading to bleeding.
Symptoms: Severe pain in the back or lower abdomen, nausea, difficulty urinating.
3. Enlarged Prostate (in Men)
As men age, the prostate gland may enlarge, pressing on the urethra and causing urinary issues.
Symptoms: Difficulty urinating, weak urine stream, frequent nighttime urination.
4. Kidney Disease
Conditions like glomerulonephritis (inflammation of kidney filters) can cause blood leakage into urine.
Symptoms: Swelling in legs, high blood pressure, fatigue.
5. Vigorous Exercise
Intense physical activity (like long-distance running) can sometimes cause temporary hematuria.
Usually resolves on its own with rest.
Consult a top nephrologist for the best advice
6. Medications
Blood thinners (like aspirin or warfarin) and certain antibiotics may increase the risk of blood in urine.
7. Kidney or Bladder Cancer
Though rare, blood in urine can be an early sign of tumors in the kidneys or bladder.
Symptoms: Painless hematuria, weight loss, persistent fatigue.
8. Inherited Disorders
Conditions like sickle cell anaemia or Alport syndrome can affect kidney function and cause hematuria.
When Should You See a Doctor?
While some cases resolve on their own, you should seek medical help if you notice:
Blood in urine lasting more than a day
Pain while urinating or severe abdominal/back pain
Frequent urination or inability to urinate
Fever, nausea, or vomiting along with hematuria
Note: If you experience heavy bleeding, dizziness, or fainting, seek emergency care immediately.
Diagnosis: How Is the Cause Determined?
Your doctor may recommend:
Urine tests: To check for infection, kidney function, or abnormal cells.
Blood tests: To assess kidney health and detect infections.
Imaging tests: Ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI to check for stones, tumors, or structural issues.
Cystoscopy: A thin tube with a camera is inserted into the bladder to check for abnormalities.
Tips for Managing & Preventing Hematuria
While treatment depends on the underlying cause, here are some general tips:
Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps flush out bacteria and prevent kidney stones.
Avoid Smoking: Smoking increases the risk of bladder cancer.
Maintain Good Hygiene: Prevents UTIs, especially in women.
Limit Salt & Processed Foods: Reduces the risk of kidney stones.
Follow Medication Advice: If on blood thinners, monitor for unusual bleeding.
Conclusion
Blood in urine can be unsettling, but understanding its causes helps in taking the right action. While some cases are harmless, others need prompt medical care. If you’re unsure, it’s always best to consult a doctor for proper evaluation.
Need Help? If you’re experiencing blood in urine, don’t wait, book a consultation with a specialist on Apollo 24|7 for expert advice and timely diagnosis.
Consult a top nephrologist for the best advice
Consult a top nephrologist for the best advice
Dr. Manju Kamal
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12 Years • MBBS,MD(General Medicine), DNB,DM(Nephrology)
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5 Years • MBBS, Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) - General Medicine ,Doctorate of Medicine (D.M.) - Nephrology , AST Fellowship in Kidney Transplant - Transplant Nephrology (Canada)
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16 Years • MBBS, MD(Med), DM(Nephrology), FICN(Canada), Fellow of American Society of Nephrology
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