What does it mean when there is blood in the urine?
The medical term for blood in the urine is hematuria. Finding blood in urine is always a concern, and patients should always consult one of our Austin urology doctors. However, it doesn’t always mean that there is something dangerous going on. When you notice blood in the toilet, it may look dark red, red, pink or cola-colored. Sometimes, you can’t see the blood, but urine testing detects it.
Certain factors increase your risk for hematuria
Specific things may increase your risk of having blood in the urine.
- A family history of kidney disease or kidney stones
- Doing strenuous exercise, such as distance running
- Viral or bacterial kidney infections
- Taking certain medications, including amitriptyline, diuretics, analgesics, anticonvulsants, oral contraceptives and others
- Taking anticoagulants, or blood thinning medications, such as Coumadin or Eliquis
There are several reasons for blood in the urine
Many different conditions cause blood to appear in urine. Two of the most common causes are urinary tract infections (UTIs) and enlarged prostates. The most worrisome reason is bladder or kidney cancer. Here are some other conditions and issues that can cause hematuria.
- Bladder, kidney, urethral or prostate infections or inflammation
- Bladder or kidney stones
- Polycystic kidney disease
- A kidney or bladder injury
In some cases, urine changes color due to medication or even food coloring. Other times, the blood isn’t coming from the urinary tract, but from another source, such as the bowels, vagina or ejaculate.
When blood in your urine requires immediate care
Anytime there is blood in the urine, you should contact a physician. However, sometimes you need to seek care urgently. If you notice any of the following symptoms, get medical attention right away.
- You can’t urinate.
- You see blood clots in your urine.
- You have a fever or are vomiting; feeling nauseous; chilling; or having pain in your back, side or abdomen.
Our Austin urology doctors have the experience and expertise to diagnose and treat the problem
After they have performed a physical examination, our team usually orders bloodwork and urinalysis. If these tests don’t provide answers, our Austin urology doctors may order a cystoscopy, an ultrasound of the bladder and/or kidneys, or other tests. Once the team makes a diagnosis, they will create a personalized treatment program to deal with the issue that is causing blood in the urine. If you are experiencing hematuria, contact us for an appointment.