Blood in urine, medically known as hematuria, is the presence of red blood cells in your urine. This can appear as visible pink, red, or brown discoloration, or it might be microscopic, detectable only through laboratory tests. It is a symptom that can arise from various conditions, including certain sexually transmitted infections.
Specific STDs Linked to Blood in Urine
Several sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can lead to blood in the urine. Gonorrhea, a bacterial infection, commonly affects the urethra, leading to urethritis. This inflammation can cause painful urination, unusual discharge, and in some instances, bleeding that appears in the urine.
Chlamydia is another widespread bacterial STI that frequently affects the urethra, causing inflammation. Individuals with chlamydia might experience painful or urgent urination and, at times, blood in their urine, although many people show no symptoms at all. Trichomoniasis, a parasitic infection, can also inflame the urinary tract in both men and women, resulting in burning sensations during urination and occasionally blood. While less direct, genital herpes, known for causing sores, can irritate tissues near the urinary opening, potentially contributing to bleeding if lesions are present.
How STDs Lead to Blood in Urine
When sexually transmitted infections target the urethra, bladder, or surrounding genital tissues, they trigger an inflammatory response. This inflammation leads to irritation and swelling of the delicate lining of the urinary tract.
As the inflammation progresses, it can damage tiny blood vessels within these irritated tissues. This damage allows red blood cells to leak into the urinary stream, manifesting as visible or microscopic blood in the urine.
Non-STD Reasons for Blood in Urine
Blood in the urine is not exclusively caused by STIs and can signal a wide range of other conditions. Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a common cause, occurring when bacteria enter the urinary system and cause inflammation, leading to bleeding. Kidney stones, hard mineral deposits, can also cause hematuria by irritating or tearing the delicate lining of the urinary tract as they pass.
Infections of the bladder (cystitis) or kidneys (pyelonephritis) can similarly result in inflammation and bleeding within the urinary system. Other potential causes include strenuous physical exercise, which can temporarily induce hematuria, certain medications like blood thinners, or injuries to the urinary tract. An enlarged prostate in men can also put pressure on the urethra, sometimes leading to infections and subsequent blood in the urine. Less commonly, hematuria can be a sign of kidney disease or certain cancers of the urinary tract.
Importance of Medical Evaluation
Given the diverse potential causes of blood in the urine, seeking prompt medical attention is essential if this symptom appears. A healthcare provider can determine the underlying cause through a thorough evaluation. This typically involves a physical examination, urine tests such as urinalysis and urine culture, and potentially imaging studies like ultrasound or CT scans.
In some cases, a procedure called cystoscopy, which involves looking inside the bladder with a small camera, may be necessary. Early diagnosis is important for any condition causing hematuria, whether an STI or another medical issue. Professional medical advice ensures appropriate and timely treatment.