What blood in the urine may mean
Blood in the urine, called haematuria, can occur with infection, stones, benign prostate problems, kidney disease or urinary tract cancer. Blood-thinning medicines can contribute to bleeding but do not establish the underlying cause.
The assessment differs for visible bleeding and microscopic blood found on testing, and takes account of risk factors and other symptoms.
A stepwise evaluation
Your history, urine tests and kidney function help guide investigation. Depending on the situation, imaging of the urinary tract and cystoscopy to inspect the bladder may be recommended.
The goal is to identify or exclude causes that require treatment, not to assume that every episode represents cancer.
What to tell the doctor
- When bleeding began, whether it recurs and whether clots are present.
- Any pain, fever, difficulty passing urine or change in flow.
- Previous urinary infections, stones, cancers or procedures.
- Medicines, including anticoagulants, and any smoking history.
- Results of earlier urine tests, scans or cystoscopy.
When to seek prompt care
Heavy bleeding, clots with difficulty passing urine, fever with urinary symptoms, severe pain or feeling faint needs prompt medical assessment. Use an urgent clinical service rather than waiting for a routine website appointment.
For a non-emergency assessment, a consultation can establish the appropriate sequence of investigations and explain what each test is intended to answer.
Common questions
Can I ignore bleeding if it stops?
No. An episode may still need investigation even when the urine has become clear.
Should I stop a blood thinner?
Do not alter it without medical advice. The bleeding and the reason for anticoagulation both need consideration.