Hematuria

What is Hematuria?

Hematuria refers to the presence of blood in the urine. It can appear as gross hematuria, which is visible to the naked eye, or microscopic hematuria, which is only detectable under a microscope during laboratory testing.

When blood is visible, urine may appear bright red, pink, or cola-colored. In some cases, discoloration may occur along with other symptoms such as fever or the presence of blood clots in the urine.

Blood in the urine may also occur alongside other symptoms, including discomfort or pain in the lower back, sides, or abdomen. Because hematuria can be associated with a variety of underlying conditions, medical evaluation is important to determine the cause.

What are the Possible Causes of Blood in the Urine?

Blood in the urine can occur for a variety of reasons. Some causes are relatively mild, while others may require prompt medical attention. Possible causes of hematuria include:

• Urinary tract infections

• Kidney or bladder cancer

• Certain medications

• Enlarged prostate (BPH)

• Kidney or bladder stones

• Kidney infections

• Kidney disease

• Injury or trauma to the urinary tract

In rare cases, very strenuous exercise may also lead to temporary hematuria. This can occur due to bladder irritation, dehydration, or the breakdown of red blood cells during intense physical activity. Because blood in the urine can be associated with several different conditions, medical evaluation is important to determine the underlying cause.

How is the Cause of Hematuria Determined?

In some cases, the exact cause of blood in the urine cannot be identified. However, physicians use several diagnostic methods to evaluate the condition and rule out potential underlying problems.

The evaluation typically begins with a physical examination and standard urine tests to check for infection, blood cells, or mineral deposits that may indicate kidney or bladder stones. Your provider will also review any related symptoms, such as abdominal pain or fever, and may assess kidney function and blood pressure.

Additional diagnostic tests may be recommended if needed. Imaging studies such as MRI or CT scans can help detect abnormalities in the kidneys, bladder, or urinary tract. A cystoscopy may also be performed, which involves inserting a small camera through the urethra to examine the inside of the bladder for signs of disease or other concerns.

How is Hematuria Treated?

Treatment for hematuria depends on the underlying cause. If an infection is present, antibiotics are typically prescribed. When an enlarged prostate is responsible, medications or minimally invasive procedures may be used to help reduce the size of the prostate and improve urinary flow. Other causes—such as kidney stones, kidney disease, or cancer—may require additional treatments, including specialized procedures or surgery.

If no clear cause is identified, your physician may recommend ongoing monitoring and follow-up testing. This is particularly important for individuals who may have a higher risk of urinary tract cancers due to factors such as smoking or family history.

In many cases, hematuria may resolve on its own without leading to long-term problems. However, because blood in the urine can sometimes signal a more serious condition, it is important to seek medical evaluation if you notice this symptom. Early assessment can help identify the cause and ensure appropriate care.