Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a common type of infection that can affect any part of the urinary system, including the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra. While symptoms often include pain or burning during urination and frequent urges to urinate, observing blood clots in urine can be an alarming and unexpected occurrence. This visible presence of blood, known as gross hematuria, warrants attention.
Blood Clots in Urine and UTIs
Blood clots and visible blood (gross hematuria) can occur with a UTI, especially in more significant infections. While microscopic blood in urine is more common with UTIs, visible blood indicates a greater degree of irritation or inflammation within the urinary tract.
When bacteria infect the urinary tract, they cause inflammation and irritation of the bladder or kidney. This inflammation can damage small blood vessels, leading to their rupture, allowing blood to leak into the urine. If enough blood enters the urinary tract, it can coagulate and form clots. These clots can appear as stringy, worm-like shapes or small, dark chunks, often reflecting the tubular structure of the urethra as they pass.
When to Seek Medical Care
Any instance of visible blood or blood clots in urine warrants prompt medical evaluation, even if other symptoms are absent. While some causes may be benign, it is never a normal finding.
Immediate medical attention is important if visible blood or clots are accompanied by severe pain during urination, an inability to urinate, constant pain in the groin or lower back, or if other tissues are expelled with urine. Additionally, if UTI symptoms like fever, chills, back pain, or worsening symptoms persist despite treatment, a doctor should be consulted without delay. A healthcare provider can diagnose the cause and recommend treatment to prevent complications.
Other Causes of Blood in Urine
While UTIs are a common cause of blood in urine, several other conditions can also lead to this symptom, some of which are more serious. Kidney stones, which are hard deposits of minerals and salts, can irritate the urinary tract as they move, causing bleeding. Kidney infections, also known as pyelonephritis, can also result in hematuria, often with additional symptoms like fever and flank pain.
Other potential causes include bladder or kidney disease, certain medications such as blood thinners or aspirin, and strenuous physical activity. In rare instances, conditions like bladder or kidney cancer can present with blood in the urine, sometimes as the only symptom.