Blood In Urine

Book a consultation with one of our doctors if:

You notice blood in your urine, even a small amount. This applies regardless of the colour (pink, red, or brown) or whether you experience any other symptoms.
You experience other urinary symptoms along with blood. This could include pain, burning, urgency, or difficulty urinating.
You have any risk factors for certain conditions. If you're prone to UTIs, have a history of kidney stones, or have risk factors for bladder cancer (smoking, family history), see a GP to rule out these possibilities.
You are pregnant and notice blood in your urine. Blood in urine during pregnancy can be concerning, even if minimal. It's important to consult your doctor to rule out any potential complications.
The blood in your urine is accompanied by severe pain in your abdomen, flank, or groin. This could be a sign of a kidney stone or other urgent condition.
You experience blood clots in your urine.
You have a fever or chills along with blood in your urine. This could indicate an infection requiring prompt medical attention.
You have difficulty urinating or are unable to urinate at all. This can be a sign of a blockage or other serious issue.

Information

Book a consultation with one of our doctors if:

You notice blood in your urine, even a small amount. This applies regardless of the colour (pink, red, or brown) or whether you experience any other symptoms.
You experience other urinary symptoms along with blood. This could include pain, burning, urgency, or difficulty urinating.
You have any risk factors for certain conditions. If you're prone to UTIs, have a history of kidney stones, or have risk factors for bladder cancer (smoking, family history), see a GP to rule out these possibilities.
You are pregnant and notice blood in your urine. Blood in urine during pregnancy can be concerning, even if minimal. It's important to consult your doctor to rule out any potential complications.
The blood in your urine is accompanied by severe pain in your abdomen, flank, or groin. This could be a sign of a kidney stone or other urgent condition.
You experience blood clots in your urine.
You have a fever or chills along with blood in your urine. This could indicate an infection requiring prompt medical attention.
You have difficulty urinating or are unable to urinate at all. This can be a sign of a blockage or other serious issue.

Do:

See a doctor as soon as possible: Blood in your urine, regardless of amount or colour (pink, red, or brown), warrants medical attention. Early diagnosis and treatment can address any underlying conditions effectively.
Describe your symptoms accurately: Tell your doctor about any other urinary symptoms you're experiencing, such as pain, burning, urgency, or difficulty urinating. Also, mention any recent illnesses, strenuous activity, or changes in your urine colour.
Drink plenty of fluids: Staying hydrated can help dilute your urine and flush out any potential irritants. Aim for clear fluids like water or clear broth.
Maintain good hygiene: Proper hygiene practices can help prevent urinary tract infections (UTIs), which can sometimes cause blood in the urine.

Don't:

Ignore the blood in your urine: Even if it's a small amount and you don't feel any discomfort, don't dismiss it. Underlying conditions may not cause immediate discomfort.
Self-diagnose or delay seeking medical attention: Blood in urine can be caused by various conditions, some more serious than others. Let a doctor diagnose the cause and determine the appropriate treatment.
Take over-the-counter medications without consulting your doctor: Some medications can worsen bleeding or interact with other medications you're taking. Let your doctor recommend appropriate medication if needed.
Restrict fluids: While certain beverages like coffee or alcohol can irritate the bladder, don't significantly restrict fluids. Dehydration can worsen certain conditions that cause blood in the urine.

Possible Questions:

Can you describe the blood in your urine? (colour, amount)
Have you noticed any other changes in your urine? (cloudy, foul-smelling, difficulty urinating)
Are you experiencing any pain or burning during urination?
Have you had any recent illnesses or infections?
Do you have a history of urinary tract infections (UTIs) or kidney stones?
Do you have any blood in your stool or vomit? (can indicate a more systemic issue)
Have you recently started any new medications or supplements?
Have you experienced any recent strenuous exercise? (in rare cases)
Are you pregnant?
Do you have a family history of kidney disease or bladder cancer?
Do you drink plenty of fluids throughout the day?
Do you consume a lot of caffeine or alcohol?
Do you smoke? (smoking can irritate the bladder)

1.Symptoms

I noticed blood in my urine. Should I be worried?

Blood in your urine (hematuria) can be alarming, but it doesn't always indicate a serious problem. However, it's important to seek medical attention promptly to determine the cause.

Visit our Symptoms & Causes page for more information.

What other symptoms might occur with blood in urine?

Blood in the urine may be accompanied by other symptoms depending on the underlying cause. These can include:

Pain or burning during urination
Frequent urination
Pelvic pain
Lower back pain
Fever or chills
Passing small amounts of urine

Visit our Symptoms & Causes page for more information.

When is blood in urine a medical emergency?

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience blood in your urine along with:

Severe pain in your abdomen or flank
Difficulty passing urine
Blood clots in your urine
Fever or chills

Visit our Symptoms & Causes page for more information.

2.Diagnosis

How will a doctor diagnose the cause of blood in my urine?

Your doctor will likely ask about your symptoms, medical history, and lifestyle habits. They may then perform one or more of the following tests:

Urinalysis:This simple test analyses your urine for the presence of red blood cells, white blood cells, bacteria, or other abnormalities.
Urine culture:This test checks for bacteria in your urine, which could indicate a urinary tract infection (UTI).
Blood tests:Blood tests can assess your kidney function and check for signs of infection or inflammation.
Imaging studies:In some cases, imaging tests like ultrasound, CT scan, or cystoscopy may be needed to get a clearer picture of your urinary tract.

Visit our Diagnosis & Treatment page for more information.

3.Treatment

What is the treatment for blood in urine?

The treatment for blood in urine depends on the underlying cause. Here are some examples:

Urinary tract infection (UTI):Antibiotics are typically prescribed to clear the infection.
Kidney stones:Treatment options may vary depending on the size and location of the stones. In some cases, medications or procedures may be used to break up or remove the stones.
Enlarged prostate:Medications or minimally invasive procedures may be used to manage symptoms.

Visit our Diagnosis & Treatment page for more information.

Can blood in urine be prevented?

There's no guaranteed way to prevent all cases of blood in urine, but some lifestyle practices can help reduce the risk:

Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated
Wipe from front to back after using the toilet (to prevent bacteria from entering the urethra)
Empty your bladder regularly and completely
Maintain a healthy weight
Practise safe sex

Visit our Diagnosis & Treatment page for more information

4.Insurance

At LIPS we work with a wide range of insurance providers. However, coverage for the diagnosis and treatment of blood in urine can vary depending on your specific plan.

Will my insurance cover diagnosis and treatment for blood in urine?

Coverage varies depending on your insurance plan. LIPS can assist you in understanding your coverage and can provide a letter of medical necessity if needed.

Does LIPS offer financing options?

LIPS may offer financing options for patients. Please inquire with them directly for details.

How does LIPS work with the National Health Service?

Our goal is to give you answers as quickly as possible and get you on the right treatment path fast – no strings attached. When you come to us, you will be seen by a qualified specialist who can determine if your situation is serious or not that same day. We don’t want you to wait weeks on end for an appointment because every minute counts when it comes to something as important as your health. If your situation is serious, our specialist will write to your doctor on the NHS advising them that you need an urgent appointment.