Blood in the urine (haematuria) is a common reason to see a urologist. It can be visible, turning urine pink, red or brown, or microscopic, found only on a urine test. Either way, the cause needs to be found.
Medically reviewed by Prof. Dr. Samir Ahmed Al-Samarrai, consultant urologist. Last reviewed:
Common causes
- Urinary tract or bladder infection, often with burning and frequent urination.
- Kidney, ureter or bladder stones, sometimes with flank pain.
- Benign prostate enlargement in men.
- Kidney diseases and inflammation.
- Bladder, kidney or prostate tumours.
- Injury or very strenuous exercise.
- Some medicines, such as blood thinners.
When is it worrying?
Visible blood without pain in an adult, especially over 40 or in smokers, should always be investigated to rule out bladder and kidney tumours, even if it happened once and stopped.
How the cause is found
- Urine test and culture to confirm blood and look for infection.
- Ultrasound or a CT scan of the kidneys and urinary tract.
- Cystoscopy to look inside the bladder when needed.
- Blood tests for kidney function, and a PSA test for men where appropriate.
Treatment
Treatment depends on the cause: the right antibiotic for an infection after testing, stone treatment, treatment of prostate enlargement, or tumour treatment if one is found. Blood in the urine should not be treated before its cause is known.
When to call an ambulance
Call 998 or go to the nearest emergency department if: you pass a lot of blood or clots, cannot pass urine at all, or have high fever with shivering or severe flank pain.
Related topics
Frequently asked questions
Is blood in the urine always serious?
Not always. It can be caused by an infection or a stone, but it should never be ignored, because bladder and kidney tumours are among its causes and are easier to treat when found early.
Can urine turn red without blood?
Yes. Beetroot and some medicines such as rifampicin can colour urine. A urine test confirms or rules out blood.
If the blood goes away by itself, do I still need tests?
Yes. The blood stopping does not mean the cause has gone, so a check is advised even after a single episode.
What tests will the doctor order?
Usually a urine test and culture, an ultrasound or CT scan of the urinary tract, and sometimes a cystoscopy depending on age and history.
Book an examination to find the cause
Prof. Al-Samarrai and Dr. Amer Mousa find the cause of urinary symptoms with the right examination and tests at Prof. Al-Samarrai Medical Center in Dubai Healthcare City.
This information is for health education and does not replace a medical examination. See our medical content policy.