Blood in the Urine
Blood in the Urine (Haematuria): What It Means and How It Is Investigated
Blood in the urine — whether visible or found on a dipstick — is a symptom that always deserves prompt specialist assessment. This guide explains the possible causes, how the investigation is carried out and what to expect.
Written and clinically reviewed by
Mr Haitham Teleb
Consultant Urological Surgeon · MBBCh, MRCS, MSc, FRCS (Urol)
- Reading time
- 7 min read
- Date published
- 1 November 2025
- Last reviewed
- 1 June 2026
What is haematuria?
Haematuria is the medical term for blood in the urine. Visible (or ‘macroscopic’) haematuria describes urine that looks pink, red or brown. Non-visible (or ‘microscopic’) haematuria is detected only on a urine dipstick or laboratory test.
Both types warrant assessment, though visible haematuria is more strongly associated with underlying urinary tract disease and is investigated urgently.
Common causes
Blood in the urine can arise anywhere along the urinary tract — the kidneys, ureters, bladder, prostate or urethra.
- Urinary tract infection
- Kidney or bladder stones
- Enlarged prostate (in men)
- Bladder or kidney tumours
- Trauma or vigorous exercise
- Medications that thin the blood
How it is investigated
A structured haematuria workup usually includes a urine sample for infection and cytology, blood tests, imaging of the upper urinary tract (ultrasound or CT urogram) and a flexible cystoscopy to inspect the bladder lining.
Most of these investigations can be completed within one or two visits, and the results are discussed with you at a dedicated follow-up appointment.
Frequently asked questions
This article provides general information only and does not replace individual medical advice. For personalised guidance, please arrange a private consultation.
Arrange a private consultation
For personalised advice, book a consultation.
If the topics in this article are affecting you, an unhurried consultation is the fastest route to a clear diagnosis and a personalised plan.
FRCS (Urol)
Fellowship-trained consultant
5.0 patient rating
Verified private reviews
Seen within days
Same-week appointments
All major insurers
BUPA · AXA · Aviva · Vitality · WPA
Arrange a consultation
Arrange your private consultation.
I see most new private patients within a few days. Send me a confidential enquiry or book directly into my clinic online — I'll personally review your concerns and guide you from there.
FRCS (Urol)
Fellowship-trained consultant
5.0 patient rating
Verified private reviews
Seen within days
Same-week appointments
All major insurers
BUPA · AXA · Aviva · Vitality · WPA