What Causes Blood In Urine

Underlying Causes of Haematuria

Blood in urine can be caused by various factors, and it's essential to seek professional advice to determine the root cause if you notice blood in your own urine. There are many possible reasons for it to occur.

Infections in the bladder, kidneys, prostate, or urethra are common culprits. Inflammation, such as cystitis (bladder inflammation) or glomerulonephritis (kidney inflammation), can result in blood in the urine. Traumatic injuries to the bladder or kidney can also be a cause as well as, in men, injuries to the prostate. Finally, both bladder and kidney cancers can cause haematuria.

Additionally, both kidney and bladder stones can lead to blood in the urine. In children, a condition known as post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis, which is a kidney issue following a strep throat infection, is a prevalent cause of haematuria. Other kidney disorders - like polycystic kidney disease or outright kidney failure - can also lead to this condition. Furthermore, recent medical procedures, such as catheterisation, surgeries, or kidney biopsies, can cause temporary haematuria.

Another area of concern is bleeding disorders and medications. Haemophilia - a genetic disorder - can cause prolonged bleeding, which can manifest as blood in the urine. Blood clots in the kidneys can also lead to haematuria. Certain medications - especially blood thinners like aspirin or warfarin - can be the cause. Other conditions, such as sickle cell disease or thrombocytopenia – which causes a low platelet count - can also result in haematuria.

Lastly, you should also know that, sometimes, what appears to be blood in the urine might originate from other areas. For women, this could be due to vaginal bleeding. Consider following our advice on the correlation between pregnancy and incontinence here for further assistance.

For men, ejaculation issues - often linked to prostate problems - can be the cause. Even the digestive system can play a role, with blood from a bowel movement appearing in the urine. Additionally, certain foods, like beetroot, or specific medications can turn the urine red, mimicking the appearance of haematuria.

Symptoms of Haematuria

When you experience blood in your urine, the urine can appear in various shades ranging from pink and red to a deep cola colour. It's the presence of red blood cells that causes this change. Surprisingly, it requires only a small amount of blood to give urine a noticeable red tint. Often, the bleeding associated with haematuria is painless. 

However, if blood clots are passed during urination, it can result in discomfort or pain. 

What does the colour of your urine mean for your health? This is an important question to ask yourself, as a colour change in your urine can indicate a potential health issue.

Risk Factors for Haematuria

While anyone, including children and teenagers, could find blood in their urine, certain factors elevate the risk of experiencing haematuria:

Age: Men who are middle-aged or older might be more susceptible to haematuria due to an enlarged prostate gland, as well as other bladder problems. Additionally, the risk of certain cancers – which are potential causes blood the in urine – increases after the age of 50.

Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): A UTI is among one of the primary causes of visible blood in children's urine.

Family History: If kidney disease is prevalent in your family, the likelihood of having blood in the urine can increase.

Medications: Some medications, including specific pain relievers, blood thinners, and antibiotics, can elevate the risk of haematuria.

Excessive Training: Intense physical activities, such as marathons, have given rise to terms like “marathon runner's haematuria.” Engaging in contact sports can also increase the risk.

Consultation and Diagnosis

If you have blood in your urine, a GP will ask about your symptoms and may need to carry out a rectal examination, and a vaginal examination if you are a woman. 

The GP might:

• Request a urine sample or schedule a blood test.

• Prescribe antibiotics if an infection, like a UTI, is suspected.

• Refer you to a specialist for further tests.

• A GP may recommend incontinence pads if you are also having symptoms of incontinence, for extra protection.

Additional diagnostic tests could include:

• CT Scan: This advanced X-ray can identify issues like tumours, stones, or other abnormalities in the bladder, kidneys, or ureters.

• Kidney Ultrasound: This process involves utilising sound waves, and provides a visual representation of the kidneys.

• Cystoscopy: A small tube equipped with a camera is inserted into the bladder via the urethra. This allows the doctor to inspect the bladder's interior and, if necessary, take tissue samples to check for abnormalities or cancerous cells.

• Kidney (Renal) Biopsy: In this procedure, a sample of kidney tissue is taken, then examined under a microscope to detect signs of kidney diseases.