Blood in urine, known as hematuria, can be alarming. It’s important to understand what this symptom might indicate and when to seek medical advice. Hematuria is classified into two types: gross hematuria (visible blood in the urine) and microscopic hematuria (blood detectable only under a microscope). If you notice visible blood in your urine, it’s crucial to consult a doctor as soon as possible, even if the symptom resolves itself.

However, blood in the urine is not always visible to the naked eye. Microscopic hematuria involves levels of red blood cells that are detectable only through a urine test. While this condition may be accompanied by pain, swelling, or other symptoms, in many cases, no additional symptoms are present.

For diagnosing hematuria, a urine sample is examined under a microscope to check for blood or bacteria, which may indicate various conditions like urinary tract infections, urinary tract stones, or other issues. In the case of asymptomatic bacteriuria, a person may have a significant number of bacteria in their urine but experience no symptoms of a urinary tract infection. The reason why these bacteria do not cause symptoms remains unclear.

One condition associated with hematuria is interstitial cystitis, where the bladder wall becomes inflamed or irritated. While the exact cause of this condition is unknown, it’s observed that smoking aggravates bladder issues and could be a contributing factor. Symptoms of urinary tract infections, such as cloudy or foul-smelling urine, blood in the urine (resulting in pink or red coloration), and sediment or mucus, might also be present.

Women suffering from chronic urinary tract infections may experience repeated infections over a short period and persistent symptoms even after treatment. These infections can be painful and distressing, particularly when they recur frequently.

This guide aims to provide an overview of the potential causes of blood in urine and the necessary actions to take. However, it is not a substitute for professional medical advice and evaluation. If you have concerns about blood in your urine, it’s imperative to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

For further information on this topic, please refer to the following sources:

Loma Linda University Health
UC Irvine Health | Department of Urology
Harvard Health
University of Rochester Medical Center
University of Washington
Baylor Medicine
Harvard Health
Harvard Health