Blood in Urine: Causes and When to Seek Help

Hematuria after urination?

Hello Dr.
Lee, I woke up yesterday morning with a slight soreness in my lower back, but it went away after I urinated.
For breakfast, I had black sesame toast and a banana covered in chocolate, along with three cups of a strong tea made from red dates, ginger, and brown sugar.
In the evening, I ate over thirty cherries.
Three hours later, I experienced frequent urination, but the volume was minimal.
On one occasion, the urine was reddish (similar to a light cranberry juice color), and there were two instances with a small amount of blood streaks.
Until today, these symptoms have resolved, and I no longer have frequent urination.
My daughter advised me to drink more water and cranberry juice, as she is concerned about a possible urinary tract infection.
Throughout this incident, I did not feel unwell at all! However, I am still a bit worried, but it is quite inconvenient to see a doctor outside of Taiwan… Thank you for your help, doctor! I appreciate it.

Mia, 60~69 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/06/22

Dr. Li Yilun reply Urology

I'm sorry, but since you are not in Taiwan, there may be limited assistance I can provide.
Typically, in Taiwan, it is advisable to visit a medical facility for a urine test.
If your condition improves after drinking more water, you can manage your health independently for the time being.
However, if there are any changes or if symptoms worsen, it is recommended to seek consultation and examination from a professional physician to avoid any delays in diagnosis.
Physicians often need to inquire about your medical history and perform visual and physical examinations, as well as other tests.

Reply Date: 2015/06/22

More Info

Blood in urine, or hematuria, can be a concerning symptom and may arise from various causes. In your case, the transient nature of the symptoms—such as the brief occurrence of blood in the urine and the absence of other discomfort—suggests that it may not be indicative of a serious underlying condition. However, it is essential to understand the potential causes and when to seek medical attention.

Possible Causes of Blood in Urine
1. Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): UTIs are common and can cause hematuria, especially if accompanied by symptoms like frequent urination, burning sensation, or urgency. In your case, the recommendation to drink more water and cranberry juice is a common home remedy to help flush out the urinary tract and may assist in preventing infections.

2. Kidney Stones: These can cause bleeding as they pass through the urinary tract. Symptoms may include severe pain, often in the back or side, and hematuria.

3. Trauma: Any injury to the kidneys or bladder can result in blood in the urine. This is less likely if there has been no recent trauma.

4. Glomerulonephritis: This is an inflammation of the kidney's filtering units and can lead to hematuria. It may be associated with other symptoms like swelling or high blood pressure.

5. Cancer: Although less common, tumors in the urinary tract can cause bleeding. This is more likely in older adults or those with risk factors.

6. Medications: Certain medications, especially blood thinners, can lead to hematuria.

When to Seek Help
While your symptoms have resolved, it is crucial to monitor for any recurrence. You should seek medical attention if:
- Blood in the urine persists or recurs.

- You experience pain, especially in the back or side.

- There are signs of infection, such as fever, chills, or a burning sensation during urination.

- You notice any other unusual symptoms, such as swelling or changes in urination patterns.

Conclusion
Given that your symptoms were brief and resolved without any additional discomfort, it may not indicate a serious issue. However, it is always wise to err on the side of caution. If you experience any recurrence of symptoms or new symptoms arise, it would be prudent to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation.
In the meantime, staying well-hydrated and maintaining a healthy diet can support urinary tract health. If you have ongoing concerns or if your situation changes, consider seeking a local healthcare provider or a telemedicine consultation for more personalized advice.

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