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Blood in urine, also known as haematuria (heem-uh-TUR-ee-uh), means there are red blood cells in your pee. It can be visible (turning urine pink, red, or cola-coloured) or invisible (only found on a urine test). Often it is harmless, but it can sometimes be a sign of another condition that needs treatment.
Key facts
Yes, blood in urine is quite common. Many people experience it at some point, and most causes are not serious.
It can affect people of all ages, but certain causes are more common in children (infections), young adults (kidney stones), and older adults (enlarged prostate, bladder issues).
Your doctor will start by asking about your symptoms, medical history, and doing a urine test (dipstick) to confirm blood. They may also check for infection or other markers.
Treatment depends entirely on the cause. Many causes (like mild infections) clear up with simple self-care or medication. Others (like stones or enlarged prostate) may need specific medical treatments. Your doctor will create a plan based on your diagnosis.
Depending on the cause, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics for infection, medications to help pass kidney stones, or treatments to shrink an enlarged prostate. For more serious conditions like kidney disease or cancer, treatment may involve specialist therapies, which your doctor will explain in detail. Always follow your healthcare provider's advice – do not stop or change treatment on your own.
If you have had blood in urine and the cause is found to be harmless, you can usually go back to normal life. If you have an ongoing condition like kidney disease, you may need regular check-ups and monitoring. It helps to keep a symptom diary (note if you see blood, pain, or other changes) to share with your doctor.
A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains supports kidney health. If you have kidney stones, your doctor may recommend limiting salt and certain foods (like red meat and oxalate-rich foods). Regular moderate exercise is good, but avoid extreme workouts if they trigger bleeding.
Not all causes can be prevented, but you can lower your risk by staying hydrated, not smoking, and seeking prompt treatment for UTIs or kidney stones. Regular check-ups can help catch problems early.
There is no routine screening for blood in urine in the general population. However, if you are at high risk (e.g., smoker over 65), your doctor may suggest occasional urine tests.
For most people, the outlook is very good. Even when the cause is serious, early detection and treatment improve outcomes significantly. Your healthcare team will support you every step of the way.
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Always verify with your doctor
Health guidelines vary by country and region. The information in this article is based on international clinical guidelines but may not reflect the specific guidelines, medications, or practices in your country. Always discuss your health concerns with your own doctor or healthcare provider, and refer to your local national health guidelines where available.
Important notice This information is for educational purposes only. It does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider about your specific situation. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency services immediately.
This article is educational and is prepared with reference to recognized health information and clinical guidance sources where available. Specific source links may vary by topic.
Last updated: July 16, 2026
Educational note: This information is for education only and is not a diagnosis.
Use it to support, not replace, advice from a licensed clinician.
If symptoms are severe, worsening, or urgent, call your local emergency number or seek emergency care.
The process can take a few weeks. Most people will start with simple tests. If needed, your doctor will refer you to a specialist (urologist or nephrologist) for further checks.
Surgery is sometimes needed for large kidney stones that do not pass, an enlarged prostate causing blockage, or for removal of tumours. Your specialist will discuss if surgery is an option and what it involves.
Seeing blood in your urine can be frightening and cause anxiety. It is normal to worry, but remember that most causes are treatable. Talk to your doctor or a counsellor if you feel overwhelmed. You are not alone.