Seeing blood in your urine—known medically as hematuria—can be alarming. While sometimes it’s harmless, it can also be a sign of a more serious urologic condition that needs evaluation.
Types of Hematuria
- Gross hematuria: Blood is visible to the naked eye, turning urine pink, red, or brown.
- Microscopic hematuria: Blood is only detectable under a microscope during a lab test.
Possible Causes
Hematuria can result from a wide variety of conditions, including:
- Kidney stones
- Urinary tract infections
- Trauma to the kidneys or urinary tract
- Certain medications or strenuous exercise
- Kidney disease or, in some cases, cancers of the kidney or urinary tract
When to See a Urologist
Any presence of blood in your urine—visible or not—should be evaluated. Our team may recommend urine testing, imaging (like a CT scan), or cystoscopy (a look inside the bladder and urethra).
Early Evaluation
While the cause of hematuria is often benign, it’s important not to ignore it. A timely diagnosis can help rule out serious conditions and put your mind at ease.
If you’ve noticed blood in your urine, contact our urology team to schedule a consultation.