What Does Blood in the Urine Mean?

Seeing blood in the urine can be alarming, and it is natural to wonder what it means. Blood in the urine is known as haematuria. Sometimes it is clearly visible and turns the urine pink, red, or brown. This is called gross haematuria. In other cases, the amount of blood is so small that it can only be seen under a microscope during a urine test. This is called microscopic haematuria. Both forms are important and should never be ignored.

There are many possible reasons for blood appearing in the urine. Some causes are mild and temporary, while others require medical attention. One common cause is a urinary tract infection. When bacteria irritate the lining of the bladder or urethra, the tissue becomes inflamed and may bleed. People with a urinary infection may also experience burning during urination, urgency, or lower abdominal discomfort.

Kidney stones are another well-known cause. These are hard mineral deposits that can form in the kidney and sometimes move into the ureter. As they travel, they can scratch the urinary tract and cause bleeding. Pain from kidney stones may be sharp, severe, or come in waves, often felt in the side, back, or lower abdomen.

Exercise can also trigger temporary blood in the urine, especially after intense physical activities such as long-distance running. This usually settles without treatment, but it is still important to confirm the reason through proper assessment.

More serious causes include kidney disease, bladder inflammation, and certain medications such as blood thinners. In older adults, blood in the urine can sometimes be a sign of conditions affecting the bladder, prostate, or kidneys, including cancer. While this possibility causes concern for many people, early evaluation gives the best chance for proper diagnosis and treatment if needed.

A health professional will usually begin with a urine test. Depending on the findings and the person’s age, symptoms, and medical history, further testing may include imaging such as ultrasound or CT scan, or a procedure called cystoscopy, which allows the doctor to look inside the bladder using a thin camera.

The most important point to remember is that blood in the urine is never something to ignore. Even if it appears once and then disappears, it is worth checking. Early assessment helps identify the cause, rule out serious conditions, and provide peace of mind.

Looking for more questions?

Visit the Bladder Questions Answered in Plain Language page.