Could Your Workout Be Causing Blood in Your Urine?
Could Your Workout Be Causing Blood in Your Urine?
What's This About?
Exercise-induced hematuria is a condition where strenuous exercise leads to blood in the urine. This article explores why it happens and what it means for your health.
Contents
- What is Exercise-Induced Hematuria?
- Sports Linked to Hematuria
- Is It Dangerous?
What is Exercise-Induced Hematuria?
Exercise-induced hematuria is when physical activity leads to an increased red blood cell count in urine. It typically resolves with rest and is not linked to any underlying kidney or urinary issues. This condition can occur in both contact and non-contact sports.
Sports Linked to Hematuria
Activities like long-distance running, football, and boxing can lead to hematuria due to trauma or physical strain. Even non-contact sports like swimming and cycling can cause it through mechanisms like kidney stress or bladder movement.

Is It Dangerous?
For most people, exercise-induced hematuria is benign and resolves within a week. However, if it persists beyond this timeframe, further evaluation is needed to rule out other health concerns.
FAQs
What is exercise-induced hematuria?
It's blood in urine after exercise without underlying disease.
Is exercise-induced hematuria serious?
Usually, it's harmless and resolves with rest.
Which sports are linked to hematuria?
Running, football, boxing, and cycling can cause it.
When should you see a doctor?
If hematuria lasts more than a week post-exercise.
Wrapping Up
Exercise-induced hematuria is common and typically not a cause for concern.
Additional References
- Jones GR, Newhouse I. Sport-related hematuria: a review. Clin J Sport Med 1997; 7:119.
- Colasanti G, Banfi G, di Belgiojoso GB, et al. Idiopathic IgA mesangial nephropathy: clinical features. Contrib Nephrol 1984; 40:147.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic.