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Blood in urine is a concerning situation. Sometimes it can be due to urinary tract infections or kidney stones, but at times it can signal serious illness. This blog highlights the symptoms and possible causes of why you might see blood in urine, and when you should see a doctor.
Synopsis
Blood in Urine
Hematuria is a condition in which blood is found in urine. Hematuria is of two main types:
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Gross hematuria: When blood in urine is visible to the naked eye.
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Microscopic hematuria: When the quantity of blood in urine is so small that it can only be detected under a microscope. In this case, the patient is considered “asymptomatic”.
Blood in urine is not necessarily a painful condition. But when blood clots pass through urine, it can cause pain.
Symptoms of Hematuria
Some symptoms associated with hematuria are:
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Changes in urine colour: A visible amount of blood in urine can be detected by a change in urine colour. Based on the amount, it can be pink, red or dark brown.
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Frequent urination: Frequent urination can be a sign of hematuria.
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Urgent need to urinate: Hematuria can increase urgency in urination.
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Fever: Fever often acts as a sign for urinary tract infections and hematuria.
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Nausea: Nausea and vomiting can sometimes be signs of hematuria.
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Pain in lower back or abdomen: Hematuria associated with kidney stones can cause pain in abdomen or lower back.
While blood in urine is not always a sign towards serious illness, it is always advisable to get your symptoms examined by a doctor.
What Causes Blood in Urine?
Blood in urine, or hematuria, happens when blood cells are present in the urine, either from the kidneys or any part of the urinary tract. Some possible causes associated with this condition are:
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Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): UTI happens when bacteria enter the urethra, the tube through which urine passes, and multiply in the bladder. It can make blood appear in the urine and change its colour to pink, red or dark brown. UTIs can also cause frequent urination, along with a burning sensation while urinating.
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Pyelonephritis: This type of UTI affects the kidneys. It happens when bacteria enter the kidney through the bloodstream or the ureters, the tubes connecting the kidneys with the bladder. Pyelonephritis has similar symptoms to UTIs, but can also cause pain in the lower back, abdomen or groin.
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Stones: Minerals in urine can sometimes crystallise within the kidney or bladder. Over time, these crystals harden into stones. Kidney stones cause pain if they create a blockage or try to pass through, which causes blood in the urine.
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Enlarged prostate gland: The prostate gland is situated between the bladder and the urethra. Due to age or other conditions, it can increase in size, which then exerts pressure on the urethra. An enlarged prostate can disrupt the flow of urine, increase urgency in urination and also cause blood in urine.
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Kidney disease: Microscopic hematuria is a common symptom of kidney disease or glomerulonephritis. This happens when the network of tiny filters in the kidney, which filter blood, called the glomerulus, becomes inflamed.
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Cancer: Visible blood in urine can be a sign of advanced kidney, bladder or prostate cancer.
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Genetic conditions: Conditions like sickle cell anaemia and Alport Syndrome can cause blood to appear in urine.
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Injury: An injury to the kidney or bladder, either due to sports, heavy exercise or accident, can cause blood to come out through urine.
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Medication: Certain anti-cancer drugs, painkillers and antibiotics have been linked to causing blood in urine.
When should you see a Doctor?
Blood in urine may not always have a serious cause, but if noticed, it is essential to consult a doctor.
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Pink or red urine colour: Urine can change colour due to certain foods and even medications, but if you notice such changes, it is good to get checked.
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Burning feeling while urinating: Burning feeling while urinating can be a sign of UTI, which can also cause hematuria.
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Frequent urination: Frequent urination can be a sign of several underlying issues, including hematuria and diabetes.
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Pain in the abdomen or lower back: If you are experiencing persistent pain in your lower back or abdomen, then it is best to see a doctor.
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Other symptoms: If you have symptoms like fever, nausea, fatigue and breathlessness, then you must consult a doctor urgently.
Conclusion
A change in urine colour may not always be due to blood. Certain foods, drinks and medications can also bring changes in urine colour. However, if you do notice red colour in urine, visit a doctor as soon as possible. At Manipal Hospitals, our Department of Urology is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities to ensure you receive an accurate diagnosis and tailored care for all your urological needs. Visit your nearest Manipal Hospitals unit today for personalised, comprehensive treatment.
FAQ's
UTI, Kidney disease and enlarged prostate are some of the most common causes for blood in urine.
Certain differences are noticed between men and women. In men, enlarged or inflamed prostate or kidney disease could be a sign of hematuria. In women, hematuria can happen due to UTIs, which are more common in women than men, and sometimes due to menstrual blood contamination.
Dehydration causes kidney stones. Kidney stones can cause hematuria.
Smoking is responsible for a range of cancers, including kidney and bladder cancers. These conditions can cause hematuria, especially at more advanced stages.
Blood in urine can occur during pregnancy due to UTI, increased blood flow within the kidneys, kidney stones and in some cases, gestational kidney disease. Hematuria during pregnancy should be evaluated urgently.
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