Blood in urine
Blood in the urine, also called haematuria, is common. It might be detected on a urine test. Or you might notice it yourself. If you think you might have blood in your urine, see a doctor.
There are many causes, including infections, stones and tumours, however most causes are not serious.
What causes blood in urine?
Common causes of blood in the urine are:
- infection of the bladder, or cystitis
- a kidney stone
- blood thinning medication
- a disease of blood.
Blood in the urine can also be caused by:
- kidney disease
- prostate enlargement causing cystitis in men
- injury to the kidney, ureter, bladder or urethra
- strenuous exercise.
In rare cases tumours of the bladder, kidney or prostate may cause blood in the urine.
Check your symptoms with healthdirect’s Symptom Checker.
Blood in urine diagnosis
Your doctor will talk to you and will examine you.
They will ask for a urine sample, and may ask for a blood test.
Other possible tests include:
- an ultrasound or CT scan of the kidneys, ureters and bladder
- a cystoscopy, in which a specialist looks into the bladder with a flexible camera.
Blood in urine treatments and follow-up
There are many different treatments for blood in the urine, and it depends on the cause. It may involve antibiotics, or surgery, or treatment for the condition which caused the blood in the urine.
It is important to have regular follow-ups with your doctor to ensure complete recovery.
Last reviewed: July 2015
