Hematuria, or blood in the urine, refers to the presence of red blood cells in the urine. It may be visible, causing the urine to appear pink, red, or cola-colored, or microscopic, detectable only through laboratory analysis. This condition can result from a variety of causes, ranging from minor issues to serious underlying health problems.
Testing for blood in urine is beneficial for individuals experiencing visible changes in urine color or those who have symptoms suggesting urinary tract issues. It’s also important for those with risk factors for kidney disease, urinary tract infections, or bladder/kidney stones, and for individuals with a family history of kidney disease or cancer.
The causes of blood in urine can be diverse, including urinary tract infections, kidney infections, bladder or kidney stones, enlarged prostate in men, kidney disease, and certain cancers (like bladder or kidney cancer). Less commonly, strenuous exercise, certain medications, and trauma can also cause hematuria.