Blood in urine in children

Overview

Blood in urine means there are red blood cells in your child's pee (urine). Sometimes you can see the blood, making the urine look pink, red, or cola-coloured. Other times it is only found during a test. It is a sign that something might be wrong, but it is often not serious.

Yes, blood in urine happens in children fairly often. In many cases it is harmless, but it should always be investigated to rule out any underlying condition.

It can affect children of any age, from babies to teenagers. Some causes are more common in certain age groups, such as urinary tract infections in younger children or minor injuries in active older children.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Pink, red, or brown-coloured urine
• Urine that looks cloudy or smells different
• No other symptoms at all (blood found only on a urine test)

Symptoms in children

• Pain or burning when peeing
• Frequent need to pee or urgency
• Fever, especially if there is an infection
• Pain in the tummy or lower back
• Discomfort in the genital area

Causes

Main causes

• Urinary tract infection (UTI) – the most common cause
• Kidney stones or bladder stones
• Minor injury or trauma to the kidneys or bladder
• Glomerulonephritis – swelling of the kidney's filtering units
• Exercise – sometimes hard exercise can cause temporary blood
• Irritation from a catheter or recent surgery

Risk factors

• History of urinary tract infections
• Constipation (can increase risk of UTI)
• Family history of kidney stones or kidney disease
• Recent illness with strep throat or skin infections (linked to glomerulonephritis)

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• Any visible blood in the urine – always check with a doctor promptly
• Blood along with pain, fever, or vomiting

Book a routine appointment if:

• Blood found only on a urine test during a check-up, without other symptoms – discuss with your doctor at the next available appointment

Diagnosis

The doctor will ask about your child's symptoms, medical history, and any recent activities. They will then order tests to find the cause of the blood in the urine.

Tests that may be done

• Urinalysis – a simple test of a urine sample to check for blood, infection, or other signs
• Urine culture – to see if there is an infection and which bacteria are causing it
• Blood tests – to check kidney function and look for signs of inflammation
• Ultrasound of the kidneys and bladder – a painless scan to look for stones, blockages, or other problems

What to expect at your appointment

The doctor will explain each test and why it is needed. Most tests are quick and painless. You may need to collect a urine sample at home or in the clinic. Results usually come back within a few days, and the doctor will discuss them with you.

Treatment

Treatment depends entirely on what is causing the blood in the urine. In many cases, the cause is harmless and goes away on its own. When treatment is needed, it is aimed at the underlying problem.

Self-care at home

• Encourage your child to drink plenty of water (unless the doctor advises otherwise)
• Wipe front to back after using the toilet to prevent infections
• Avoid bubble baths or harsh soaps that can irritate the genital area

Medical treatments

If a urinary tract infection is found, antibiotics are usually prescribed. For kidney stones, treatments may include increasing fluids to help pass small stones, or procedures to break up larger stones. Glomerulonephritis may require medicines to reduce swelling and protect the kidneys. Always follow the doctor's advice and finish any prescribed course of treatment.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is rarely needed. It may be considered for large kidney stones that do not pass on their own, or to correct a structural problem in the urinary tract. Your child's doctor will explain if surgery is an option and what it involves.

Living with this condition

Most children with blood in urine can continue normal activities while the cause is being investigated. If an infection or other condition is found, follow the treatment plan and attend follow-up appointments. Keep an eye on your child's urine colour and any new symptoms.

Lifestyle tips

• Encourage good toilet habits, like wiping correctly and not holding pee in for too long
• Keep your child well-hydrated with water throughout the day
• Ensure regular physical activity, but avoid intense exercise if it seems to trigger blood

Diet and exercise

A balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables is always good for kidney health. If your child has kidney stones, the doctor may recommend reducing salt and certain foods. Mild to moderate exercise is fine, but very strenuous activity may sometimes bring back blood – talk to your doctor if this happens.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Seeing blood in your child's urine can be frightening for parents. Most causes are treatable, and children usually do not feel overly worried unless they sense your stress. Reassure your child that doctors are helping, and take care of your own emotional wellbeing by asking questions and getting support.

Prevention

Not all causes can be prevented, but some steps may reduce the risk of urinary tract infections and kidney stones. Good hydration, proper hygiene, and avoiding constipation can help. If your child has a known risk, your doctor may suggest specific measures.

Complications

If left untreated

• Untreated urinary tract infections can spread to the kidneys and cause more serious infection
• Large or untreated kidney stones may block urine flow and damage the kidney
• In some cases, ongoing blood in urine may be a sign of a kidney condition that could lead to long-term damage if not managed

Long-term outlook

The outlook for children with blood in urine is very good. The vast majority have a simple, treatable cause like a urine infection. Even for more serious conditions, early diagnosis and treatment usually lead to full recovery and normal kidney function.

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