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Blood in the urine (needs checking)

Also called: Blood in urine, hematuria, pink or red pee

Pink, red, or cola-colored urine, or blood found on a test. It always needs a check, even if it goes away.

AlwaysGet it checked
Common causesUTI, kidney stones, exercise

Overview

Beets and some medicines can turn urine red.

Visible blood makes urine pink, red, or cola-colored. Microscopic blood is only found on a urine test.

Common causes are infection, kidney stones, hard exercise, and an enlarged prostate. Bladder or kidney cancer is less common but must be ruled out, especially in smokers.

Symptoms

Common signs:

  • Blood in the urine
  • Pink, red, or brown urine (blood in urine)

Less common

  • Pain with peeing
  • Side pain

Look up a symptom: Pink, red, or brown urine (blood in urine)

When to get medical care

Call 911Can't pee, or heavy bleeding with clots.
Get care todayFever, side pain, or vomiting.
See a doctor soonAny blood in urine.

Causes

Infection, stones, cancer, injury.

Does it spread or run in families?

  • It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Who is more likely to get it

  • Smoking
  • Older age

Possible complications

Diagnosis

A urine test confirms it.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

  • Urine test:
  • Imaging:
  • Cystoscopy:

Treatment

Get evaluated.

Self-care

  • Drink fluids

Prevention

To lower your risk or prevent problems:

  • Don't smoke

Which doctor treats this

  • Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
  • They may send you to a urologist (urinary tract doctor).

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

  • Adults over 35 and smokers: Need a full check.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

  • If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
  • Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
  • Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
  • Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Depends on cause.

Most causes are treatable.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

Questions to ask

  • Do I need a scope of my bladder?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Blood in the urine (needs checking)

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-12.