What Is The Most Common Cause Of Blood In Urine?

Seeing blood in your urine, medically called hematuria, can be alarming. While it’s not always a sign of a serious condition, it should never be ignored. In many cases, the underlying cause is treatable—especially when diagnosed early. But what exactly is the most common cause of blood in urine, and when should you seek medical attention?

At Lokmanya Hospital, one of the best hospitals in Pune for kidney and urology treatment, we believe that understanding your symptoms is the first step toward effective care. Our specialists focus on timely diagnosis and customized treatment plans for all urinary conditions, from minor infections to complex kidney issues.

In this blog, we’ll uncover the most common cause of blood in urine, explore other possible reasons, and answer the most searched questions like “Is blood in urine serious?”, “Does UTI always cause blood?”, and “When should I worry about hematuria?”

What Is Hematuria?

Hematuria is the medical term for the presence of blood in the urine. It comes in two forms:

• Gross Hematuria: When the blood is visible and turns the urine pink, red, or brown.
• Microscopic Hematuria: When red blood cells are found during a urine test but the urine looks normal.

Both types can indicate a range of medical issues, so proper diagnosis is essential.

The Most Common Cause: Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)

The most common cause of blood in urine is a Urinary Tract Infection (UTI), particularly in women, but men and children can also experience them.

Why do UTIs cause blood in urine?

A UTI occurs when bacteria enter the urinary tract—most commonly the bladder—and multiply. As the infection worsens, it inflames the bladder or urethral lining, causing irritation, which can lead to bleeding. This is often accompanied by other symptoms like:

• Burning sensation during urination
• Frequent urge to urinate
• Cloudy or foul-smelling urine
• Lower abdominal pain

Who is at risk of UTIs?

• Women (due to shorter urethra)
• Individuals with diabetes
• People with urinary catheters
• Older adults
• Those with a history of kidney stones

Note: While UTIs are treatable, recurrent infections can lead to more serious complications like kidney infections.

Other Common Causes of Hematuria

While UTIs top the list, there are several other causes of blood in urine that need attention:

1. Kidney Stones

These are hard deposits of minerals that form in the kidneys. When they move through the urinary tract, they can cause intense pain and damage the lining, leading to bleeding.

2. Bladder or Kidney Infections

Infections beyond the bladder—especially in the kidneys (pyelonephritis)—can cause visible hematuria and systemic symptoms like fever and chills.

3. Enlarged Prostate (in men)

Men over 50 often experience an enlarged prostate (Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia), which can block urine flow and cause bleeding.

4. Exercise-Induced Hematuria

Sometimes, intense physical activity—especially long-distance running—can cause temporary blood in urine. This usually resolves on its own.

5. Injury or Trauma

Accidents involving the kidneys or bladder area can cause visible blood in the urine.

6. Cancer

Blood in urine can be an early sign of bladder, kidney, or prostate cancer, especially in people over 40. If there’s no pain but persistent hematuria, consult a doctor immediately.

Why Choose Lokmanya Hospital for Hematuria and Urological Care?

At Lokmanya Hospital, we understand how concerning urinary symptoms can be. As one of the best hospitals in Pune for kidney and urology treatment, we offer advanced diagnostic tools such as ultrasound, CT scans, and cystoscopy to ensure precise diagnosis. Our team comprises highly experienced urologists and nephrologists who design personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient's needs. With a focus on minimally invasive surgeries, we help patients recover faster and more comfortably. Our 24/7 emergency support and dedicated follow-up care ensure continuity and peace of mind.

Whether you're dealing with a simple UTI or a more complex kidney or bladder disorder, Lokmanya Hospital delivers comprehensive urology care under one roof. From diagnosis to long-term management, we stand by our commitment to quality, safety, and compassion. Our clinical excellence, modern infrastructure, and patient-first approach make Lokmanya a top choice for anyone seeking the best hospital in Pune for urological health.

Final Words: Don’t Ignore the Signs

Even if it's just once, seeing blood in your urine warrants a medical check-up. Early intervention can prevent complications and provide peace of mind. In most cases, hematuria is treatable—but only when the underlying cause is identified accurately.

If you're experiencing symptoms of hematuria, don’t wait. Book your consultation at Lokmanya Hospital—where we combine clinical excellence with patient-focused care to give you the best outcomes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What does it mean if you have blood in urine but no pain?
This may indicate microscopic hematuria or even early-stage cancer. While painless, it can be serious and must be evaluated through lab tests and imaging.
2. Is blood in urine always a UTI?
Not always. UTIs are common, but other conditions like stones, kidney infections, or tumors can also cause hematuria.
3. When should I worry about blood in urine?
You should see a doctor if:

• Blood appears repeatedly
• It’s accompanied by fever, nausea, or pain
• You have a family history of kidney disease or cancer
• You’re over 40

4. Can stress cause blood in urine?
Indirectly, yes. Stress can weaken your immune system, making you more vulnerable to infections, which can cause hematuria.
5. Can hematuria be treated?
Yes. Once the cause is identified, your doctor can recommend antibiotics, medication, or even surgery based on the condition.