Blood in the urine, also known as hematuria, can be a worrying symptom for anyone who experiences it.

While it may not always be a cause for concern, it is essential to understand what can cause blood in urine to determine if it indicates a more serious problem. In this article, we will explore ten potential causes of blood in the urine.

Urinary Tract Infections

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a common cause of blood in the urine. When bacteria enters the urinary tract, it can cause inflammation and irritation that leads to hematuria.

Other symptoms of a UTI can include frequent urination, pain or burning during urination, and foul-smelling or cloudy urine. If you suspect you have a UTI, your doctor can prescribe antibiotics to treat the infection.

Kidney Stones

Kidney stones are another potential cause of blood in the urine. When small stones pass through the urinary tract, they can cause irritation and inflammation, leading to hematuria.

Other symptoms of kidney stones may include severe pain in the lower back or abdomen, nausea and vomiting, and difficulty urinating. Depending on the size and location of the stones, treatment options may include pain medication, lithotripsy to break up the stones, or surgery to remove them.

Bladder or Kidney Infections

Infections of the bladder or kidneys can also cause blood in the urine. These types of infections can occur when bacteria enter the urinary tract and cause inflammation and irritation.

Along with hematuria, other symptoms of bladder or kidney infections may include pain in the lower abdomen or back, fever, and frequent or painful urination. Antibiotics are typically prescribed to treat these types of infections.

Enlarged Prostate

Men who have an enlarged prostate may develop hematuria as a result of the condition. The prostate gland sits below the bladder and surrounds the urethra, which is the tube that carries urine out of the body.

When the prostate is enlarged, it can irritate the bladder and urethra, leading to blood in the urine. Other symptoms of an enlarged prostate may include difficulty urinating, weak urine flow, and frequent urination. Treatment options may include medication or surgery.

Kidney Disease

Blood in the urine can also be a sign of kidney disease, such as glomerulonephritis, kidney infection, or kidney cancer. In these cases, hematuria is often accompanied by other symptoms, such as swelling in the legs, high blood pressure, and fatigue.

Treatment for kidney disease will depend on the underlying cause and may include medication and lifestyle changes.

Bladder Cancer

Bladder cancer is a less common cause of blood in the urine. This type of cancer can develop when abnormal cells grow and divide in the lining of the bladder.

Along with hematuria, other symptoms of bladder cancer may include pain during urination, frequent urination, and lower back pain. Treatment may include surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy, depending on the stage of the cancer.

Sexually Transmitted Infections

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can also cause blood in the urine. STIs such as chlamydia and gonorrhea can lead to inflammation and irritation of the urethra, which can result in hematuria.

Along with blood in the urine, other symptoms of an STI may include discharge from the penis or vagina, pain during sex, and a burning sensation during urination. Treatment typically involves antibiotics.

Polycystic Kidney Disease

Polycystic kidney disease is a genetic disorder that causes numerous fluid-filled cysts to form in the kidneys.

Over time, these cysts can cause the kidneys to enlarge and lose function, leading to hematuria and other symptoms such as high blood pressure and back pain. Treatment options may include medication and lifestyle changes.

Sickle Cell Anemia

Sickle cell anemia is an inherited blood disorder that causes red blood cells to become misshapen and break down. Along with other symptoms such as fatigue and shortness of breath, hematuria can occur in people with sickle cell anemia.

Treatment may include blood transfusions, medication, and lifestyle changes.

Medications and Supplements

Certain medications and supplements can cause hematuria as a side effect. Examples of medications that may cause blood in the urine include blood thinners, anti-inflammatory drugs, and antibiotics.

Supplements such as vitamin C and warfarin can also lead to hematuria. If you suspect that your medication or supplement is causing hematuria, talk to your doctor about alternative options.

Conclusion

If you experience blood in your urine, it is essential to seek medical attention to determine the underlying cause. While hematuria may not always be a cause for concern, it can be a sign of a more serious underlying problem.

By understanding the potential causes of blood in the urine, you can work with your doctor to determine the proper course of diagnosis and treatment.