Noticing blood in urine can be alarming. Many people worry that something is terribly wrong. Often, the cause is minor and short-term. In other cases, blood in urine (hematuria) can be a sign of something more serious.

That’s why it’s important to seek care right away if you notice blood in your urine.

Here are eight common causes of blood in urine and signs that it’s time to see a urologist in the Charlotte, NC area.

8 Common Causes of Blood in Urine

1. Urinary Tract Infections

Urinary tract infections happen when bacteria enter the urinary system. They can irritate the bladder or urethra and cause bleeding. Common symptoms include:

  • Burning during urination
  • Needing to urinate often
  • Cloudy or strong-smelling urine
  • Blood in the urine

UTIs are treated with antibiotics.

2. Kidney Stones

Kidney stones form when minerals build up in the kidneys. If a stone moves, it can scrape the lining of the urinary tract. This irritation may cause blood in the urine. Pain can be mild or very severe. It depends on how big the stone is and whether it’s moving through your urinary tract or stuck in one place.

3. Enlarged Prostate

An enlarged prostate, also called benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), can block urine flow. Pressure from the prostate can irritate nearby blood vessels. This may occasionally lead to hematuria, especially in older men.

4. Medications

Some medications can increase the risk of urinary bleeding. Blood thinners are a common example. Bleeding may improve once the dose is adjusted or the medication is changed. Never stop or adjust medication without talking to your doctor first.

5. Vigorous Exercise

Intense physical activity can sometimes cause temporary blood in urine. This may happen due to dehydration, bladder stress, or red blood cell breakdown. Exercise-related hematuria often clears within a few days.

6. Injury or Trauma

A direct blow to the lower back or abdomen can injure the kidneys or bladder. Falls, accidents, or sports injuries may cause visible blood in urine. Severe trauma requires immediate medical attention.

7. Kidney Disease

Certain kidney conditions affect the filtering units of the kidneys. This can allow blood cells to leak into the urine. Blood in urine may appear along with swelling, fatigue, or changes in urination.

8. Cancer

Hematuria can be a sign of bladder, kidney, or prostate cancer. This is more concerning when bleeding is painless or keeps returning. It’s important to see a urologist for diagnosis as soon as possible. Earlier detection gives you a better chance of a positive outcome.

When to See a Doctor

Blood in urine is never considered normal, though the cause may not be serious. If you see any amount of blood, you should seek care from an experienced urologist. An urgent visit is especially important if blood in urine is paired with:

  • Fever chills or nausea
  • Trouble starting or emptying your bladder
  • Persistent or worsening bleeding
  • A personal or family history of kidney disease or urinary cancer

If you notice blood in your urine, do not ignore it. Our expert urologist offer evaluation and treatment for hematuria in Charlotte, NC and West Columbia, SC.

If you have blood in your urine, don’t delay – schedule an appointment today!