What's the Big Deal About Blood in Your Pee?

What Exactly is Hematuria?

Hematuria is the medical term for blood in urine. There are two types: gross hematuria, which you can see with the naked eye, and microscopic hematuria, which is only visible under a microscope. Gross hematuria can make your pee look red, pink, or cola-colored. Microscopic hematuria is usually found during routine urine tests.

What Causes Blood in Urine?

There are many potential causes of hematuria, ranging from harmless to serious. Common causes include urinary tract infections, kidney stones, and in older adults, enlarged prostate or bladder cancer. Vigorous exercise can sometimes cause temporary hematuria. In some cases, certain foods like beets or medications can make urine look red without actual blood being present.

When Should You Worry?

While blood in urine isn't always serious, it's important to get it checked out. See a doctor immediately if you have visible blood in your urine, especially if accompanied by pain, fever, or difficulty urinating. Even if the blood is microscopic and found during a routine test, follow up with your doctor. They may recommend further tests to determine the cause.

Frequently Asked Questions

Key Takeaways

While blood in urine can be concerning, remember that many causes are treatable and not all are serious.

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