Seeing blood in your urine can be scary. It’s not something you expect, and it’s hard to ignore when it happens.
You may be wondering what is the most common cause of blood in urine and whether it’s something serious. In many cases, there’s a clear and treatable reason, but it’s still something you shouldn’t overlook.
Blood in the urine, also called hematuria, means there are red blood cells in your urine. It can come from different parts of the urinary tract. Some causes are more common and less serious, while others may need medical attention.
Below, we’ll walk through the most common causes, what to watch for, and when it’s time to get checked.
What Does Blood in the Urine Look Like?
Hematuria does not look the same for everyone. With gross hematuria, the urine may appear:
- Light pink
- Bright red
- Dark red
- Brown or tea-colored
Some people notice small clots that can look stringy or appear as small dark pieces in the urine.
Microscopic hematuria causes no visible change in color. It is often discovered during a physical or evaluation for another issue. Even if you feel completely well, persistent microscopic hematuria requires evaluation.
When Is Blood in the Urine an Emergency?
Most cases are not emergencies, but you should seek urgent care if you:
- See blood clots and cannot urinate
- Have severe pain in your side, back, or lower abdomen
- Develop fever or chills
- Experience nausea or vomiting
These symptoms may suggest a kidney stone, or a more serious infection or blockage.
What Is the Most Common Cause of Blood in Urine?
The urinary tract includes the:
- Kidneys
- Ureters
- Bladder
- Urethra
The most common cause of hematuria is a urinary tract infection (UTI). When bacteria enter this system, they can cause infection and inflammation. Inflamed tissue bleeds more easily, leading to blood in the urine.
Symptoms of a UTI often include:
- Burning with urination
- Frequent urination
- Urgent need to urinate
- Pelvic discomfort
UTIs are especially common in women. But men can develop them as well, especially if they experience incomplete bladder emptying or prostate enlargement.
Other Causes of Blood in the Urine
While a urinary tract infection is the most common cause, several other conditions can also lead to blood in the urine.
Kidney or bladder stones
Stones can scrape the lining of the urinary tract as they move, which may cause both pain and bleeding.
Enlarged prostate
In men, an enlarged prostate can press on the urethra and irritate nearby tissues, which can lead to blood in the urine.
Kidney disease
Certain kidney conditions, especially those that affect the filtering units, can cause microscopic blood in the urine. This may also be linked with:
- Protein in the urine
- Swelling
- High blood pressure
Cancer
Bladder, kidney, or prostate cancer can sometimes cause blood in the urine. This is more common in adults over 40, especially those with a history of smoking.
Medications
Blood thinners and aspirin can make bleeding more noticeable. They don’t usually cause blood in the urine on their own, but they can reveal bleeding from another underlying issue.
Other Causes
Other less common causes include:
- Polycystic kidney disease
- Sickle cell disease
- Trauma to the kidneys or bladder
- Vigorous endurance exercise, such as long-distance running
In women, menstrual blood can sometimes be mistaken for hematuria, which is another reason proper testing is needed.
How Doctors Find the Cause of Blood in the Urine
Evaluation usually begins with a review of your medical history, symptoms, and medications. An exam may follow, along with:
- Urinalysis to check for red blood cells, infection, or protein
- Blood tests to assess kidney function
- Imaging tests, such as an ultrasound or CT scan, to look for stones, masses, or structural issues
- Cystoscopy, a thin camera inserted through the urethra to examine the bladder
Understanding the Most Common Cause of Blood in Urine
If you’ve been asking what is the most common cause of blood in urine, the answer is usually a urinary tract infection. UTIs can irritate the lining of the urinary tract, which can lead to bleeding.
That said, a UTI is not the only cause. Kidney stones, an enlarged prostate, kidney disease, and, in some cases, cancer can also lead to blood in the urine. Some causes are minor, while others may require more advanced care.
Even if you don’t have pain or other symptoms, blood in the urine should not be ignored. Getting the right diagnosis early can help you avoid complications and get the right treatment.
If you’re in Myrtle Beach, Murrells Inlet, or Conway, call 843.347.2450 to schedule an appointment with a urology provider.