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Blood in Your Pee? What It Might Mean and When to Worry
Published: Sep 07, 2024
Finding blood in your urine can be alarming. While it's not always serious, it's important to understand what it could mean for your health.
Types of Bloody Urine
Blood in urine, called hematuria, can be visible (gross hematuria) or microscopic (only detectable with lab tests). Visible blood can make urine pink, red, or cola-colored. Microscopic blood is invisible but can indicate underlying issues.
Common Causes
Urinary tract infections, kidney stones, and vigorous exercise are common culprits. More serious causes include kidney disease, bladder or kidney cancer, and blood disorders. In men, prostate problems can also cause blood in urine.
When to See a Doctor
Any amount of blood in your urine warrants medical attention. It's especially urgent if you have pain, fever, or difficulty urinating. Even if the bleeding stops, it's important to get checked to rule out serious conditions.
Diagnostic Tests
Your doctor may order urine tests, blood tests, or imaging studies like CT scans. In some cases, a cystoscopy (looking inside the bladder with a camera) may be needed. These tests help determine the source and cause of the bleeding.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, beets and some berries can turn urine red.
No, microscopic blood requires lab tests to detect.
Yes, intense workouts can sometimes cause temporary hematuria.
Key Takeaway
While blood in urine can have benign causes, it should never be ignored as it may signal serious health issues.
References
- Cohen RA, Brown RS. Microscopic hematuria. N Engl J Med. 2003;348(23):2330-2338.
- Grossfeld GD, et al. Evaluation of asymptomatic microscopic hematuria in adults. Am Fam Physician. 2001;63(6):1145-1155.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
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