A urinary tract infection (UTI) is a common infection affecting any part of the urinary system, which includes the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra. Bacteria, often E. coli, are the most frequent cause of UTIs, entering the urinary tract through the urethra and multiplying, typically in the bladder. Experiencing symptoms such as frequent urination, painful urination, and lower back pain can be concerning, especially if you discover blood in your urine.
Understanding Blood in Urine with a UTI
Blood in urine, known as hematuria, can occur with a UTI. Hematuria is the presence of red blood cells in the urine, and it can manifest in two ways. Gross hematuria is visible to the naked eye, causing urine to appear pink, red, or even brown, similar to the color of tea or cola. Even a small amount of blood can significantly change the urine’s color.
Microscopic hematuria, conversely, is not visible without magnification and is only detectable through laboratory tests like a urinalysis. In such cases, the urine color remains normal, and there are no associated symptoms. Regardless of whether the blood is visible or only detectable microscopically, its presence requires medical evaluation. The amount of blood in the urine does not always correspond to the severity of the infection or the underlying cause.
Causes of Blood in Urine During a UTI
When a urinary tract infection leads to blood in the urine, it is primarily due to inflammation within the urinary tract lining. Bacteria, such as E. coli, infect the urethra, bladder, or even the kidneys, leading to an inflammatory response. This inflammation damages the tiny blood vessels within the affected areas.
The rupture of these small blood vessels allows red blood cells to leak into the urine, resulting in hematuria. For instance, in a bladder infection (cystitis), the inflammation is confined to the bladder, while a kidney infection (pyelonephritis) can involve both the kidneys and bladder, potentially causing more significant bleeding. The extent of inflammation directly influences the amount of bleeding observed.
When to Seek Medical Attention for Blood in Urine
If you notice blood in your urine, whether visible or suspected, contact a healthcare provider promptly. This includes any instance of visible blood, persistent blood, or blood accompanied by severe pain, fever, or chills. Symptoms like back or side pain, nausea, or vomiting alongside blood in urine may suggest the infection has spread to the kidneys.
A healthcare professional can determine the cause of the blood and guide appropriate treatment. They may order a urinalysis, which examines a urine sample for signs of infection like red and white blood cells or bacteria. A urine culture may also be performed to identify the specific bacteria or fungi causing the infection and guide antibiotic treatment. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are important to prevent potential complications.