Seeing blood in your urine can be unsettling, but it’s not always a cause for panic. Sometimes, it’s due to something minor, like a urinary tract infection or intense exercise. Other times, it's a sign of a more serious issue. Knowing what’s normal and when to call a doctor is essential. Here are seven possible causes of blood in urine (hematuria) and signs that it’s time to see a doctor.
Causes of Blood in Urine
1. Urinary Tract Infections
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a common ailment of the urinary tract. UTIs occur when bacteria enter the body through the urethra and cause an infection. Symptoms of a UTI can include:
- A frequent urge to urinate
- Burning with urination
- Cloudy urine
- Blood in the urine
UTIs are typically treated with oral antibiotics and drinking lots of water.
2. Kidney Stones
Kidney stones are hard deposits of minerals and salts that form in the kidneys. Kidney stones can irritate the urinary tract if they move. This irritation may cause minor abrasions, leading to blood in the urine.
3. Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)
BPH is a condition that causes the prostate to grow. As the prostate enlarges, it can put pressure on the urethra and cause urine to back up into the bladder. If the blockage remains untreated, more serious conditions can develop, leading to blood in the urine.
4. Medications
Some medications, like blood thinners, can cause bleeding in the urinary tract. This happens if they are not taken or dosed correctly. Bleeding usually resolves once the medication is stopped or the dose is corrected.
5. Exercise-Induced Hematuria
In some cases, strenuous or vigorous physical exercise can cause blood in the urine. This can occur due to:
- Increased pressure on the bladder during exercise
- The breakdown of red blood cells in response to physical exertion
- Dehydration
Blood in the urine from intense exercise usually goes away in 72 hours or less.
6. Trauma
Trauma or injury to the bladder or kidneys, like a car accident or fall with a back injury, is one of the causes of blood in the urine. Depending on the severity of the injury, the blood may resolve on its own after some time and rest. However, in more severe cases, your doctor may have to perform surgery to stop the bleeding.
7. Cancer
Blood in the urine might indicate cancer in the bladder or kidneys. This is more likely if the blood is persistent and painless.
When to See a Doctor
Blood in urine is never normal. If you see blood when you urinate, it's important to see a doctor as soon as possible. They can help you determine the cause and ensure you get prompt treatment. A more urgent evaluation may be needed if the blood in your urine is also accompanied by:
- Fever, chills, or nausea
- The inability to empty your bladder or start a stream
- A family history of kidney disease or urinary cancers
If you're worrying about the causes of blood in urine, don't wait - schedule an appointment today!