A urinary tract infection (UTI) is an infection that can occur in any part of the urinary system. This system includes the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra. UTIs are quite common, and they can lead to a range of uncomfortable symptoms.
Bleeding as a UTI Symptom
Urinary tract infections can cause bleeding, known as hematuria. This bleeding can be microscopic, detectable only through laboratory tests, or macroscopic (gross), where blood is visible in the urine. When visible, urine may appear pink, red, or even a cola-like brown. While bleeding can occur, it is not always the most prominent symptom for everyone experiencing a UTI. Other common signs that often accompany a UTI include painful urination, a frequent and urgent need to urinate, and discomfort or pressure in the pelvic area.
Why Bleeding Occurs
Blood in the urine during a UTI results from the infection’s impact on the urinary tract lining. Bacteria that cause the infection trigger an inflammatory response, leading to irritation within the urinary system, particularly in the bladder. This inflammation can make the small blood vessels lining the urinary tract more fragile. As a result, these vessels may leak blood into the urine. The extent of bleeding can vary depending on the severity of this inflammation and the specific types of bacteria involved in the infection.
When to Seek Medical Attention
Any blood in your urine warrants prompt medical evaluation. While UTIs are a possible cause, a healthcare professional can accurately diagnose the source of the bleeding and rule out other potentially serious conditions. Beyond visible blood, certain symptoms accompanying a suspected UTI signal a more severe infection, possibly indicating that the infection has spread to the kidneys. These warning signs include fever, chills, pain in the back or side, nausea, or vomiting. Experiencing any of these symptoms necessitates immediate medical attention.
Other Causes of Urinary Bleeding
While UTIs are a common cause of blood in the urine, other conditions can also lead to this symptom, emphasizing the importance of a professional diagnosis. Kidney stones, for instance, can cause blood to appear in the urine, often accompanied by severe pain. Certain medications, strenuous physical activities, or underlying kidney diseases can also result in hematuria. In some cases, blood in the urine can be a sign of more serious conditions, such as bladder or kidney cancer, particularly in older individuals. Self-diagnosing the cause of urinary bleeding is not advisable; a medical assessment is always recommended.