Blood in urine

Blood in urine is called haematuria. It may make urine look pink, red or brown, or be detected only on a test. Infection, stones and other urinary conditions are possible causes. Visible blood should be medically assessed even if it is painless, happens once or seems to disappear.

Could the colour come from something else?

Some foods, medicines or bleeding from another source can alter the appearance of urine. A clinician can help clarify this, but do not assume a harmless explanation without assessment. Painful urination may suggest infection, while painless bleeding can still need investigation.

Tell the doctor about clots, urinary frequency, difficulty passing urine, pain in the side or back, fever and recent injury. Mention menstruation, vigorous exercise and all current medicines. The timing of bleeding and whether it recurs can help guide testing.

For the Australian guidance behind this explanation, see Healthdirect Australia: Blood in urine (haematuria) - symptoms, causes and treatment.

What tests might be needed?

Urine testing can look for blood, infection and other abnormalities. Depending on findings, further blood tests, imaging or specialist assessment may be recommended. Not every cause is visible from the urine sample alone, and a presumed infection may need follow-up to confirm the bleeding has resolved.

Ask who will review results and whether a repeat sample is needed. Keep the collection instructions and avoid assuming that no phone call means the result was normal. Telehealth can arrange an initial discussion, but testing and sometimes examination are important parts of the assessment.

When is it urgent?

Large amounts of blood, clots, inability to pass urine, significant abdominal or flank pain, fever or vomiting needs urgent care. Call 000 for heavy bleeding with collapse or other life-threatening symptoms. Pregnancy or significant kidney disease changes the assessment. Do not delay because the urine becomes clear between episodes or because you have had a urinary infection before.

Where to go next

Read Doccio information about uti to understand the relevant service. A doctor decides whether a consultation, examination, referral or another pathway is appropriate for your situation.