A urinary tract infection (UTI) is one of the most common infections that affects both men and women. Although UTIs are typically associated with symptoms like a frequent urge to urinate, burning sensations while urinating, and cloudy urine, one of the more concerning symptoms is blood in urine. 

If you’ve noticed blood in your urine, it can be unsettling, and understandably so. But is it possible that a UTI could be the cause of this? Yes, it can.

In this guide, we’ll explore how and why UTIs cause blood in urine, what steps to take if you notice this symptom, and additional details you should be aware of regarding UTIs.

What exactly is a UTI?

A UTI is an infection that occurs within any part of your urinary system, which includes your kidneys, bladder, ureters, and urethra.

UTIs are caused by bacteria, often Escherichia coli (E. coli), which normally resides in the colon but can travel to the urinary tract and lead to an infection. Women are more likely to experience UTIs due to their shorter urethras, but men, children, and the elderly can also be affected.

A UTI can occur in various parts of the urinary system. The two main types are:

• Cystitis: A bladder infection, which is the most common form of UTI.
• Pyelonephritis: A kidney infection, which is more serious and requires prompt medical attention.

Can a UTI cause blood in urine?

Yes, a UTI can cause blood in your urine. When an infection occurs in the urinary tract, the lining of the urethra, bladder, or kidneys can become irritated and inflamed. This inflammation can damage small blood vessels, causing them to rupture. As a result, blood can enter the urine, leading to what is known as hematuria.

Hematuria can be:

• Microscopic Hematuria: Blood that is present in the urine but can only be detected through a urinalysis (i.e., under a microscope).
• Gross Hematuria: Visible blood in the urine, which may give your urine a pink, red, or even brownish tint.

If blood in your urine is accompanied by other symptoms of a UTI, such as pain or discomfort while urinating and frequent urges to urinate, it’s likely the result of the infection.

What happens when a UTI causes blood in urine?

When a UTI causes blood to appear in urine, it is typically due to the irritation and inflammation of the urinary tract. This condition occurs when the infection damages small blood vessels within the bladder or kidneys. In the case of cystitis, the inflammation tends to be limited to the bladder, whereas pyelonephritis can involve both the kidneys and the bladder, potentially leading to more significant bleeding.

Further complications

A UTI leading to blood in urine can also be indicative of complications, especially if it’s left untreated. If the infection spreads to the kidneys, it can lead to kidney infections, which can be more severe and potentially life-threatening if not treated in time. This is why it’s essential to address any UTI symptoms, particularly blood in urine, as early as possible.

Is blood in urine always a sign of a UTI?

No, blood in urine does not always signify a UTI. Although UTIs are one of the most common causes of hematuria, there are other medical conditions that can result in blood in your urine. Some of these conditions include:

• Bladder Stones or Kidney Stones: Bladder stones and kidney stones are hard deposits that form in the urinary tract and can cause bleeding if they irritate or block the flow of urine.
• Trauma or Injury: Any injury to the kidneys, bladder, or urethra, whether from an accident or surgery, can cause blood to appear in urine.
• Bladder Cancer: Though rare, a tumour in the bladder can result in visible blood in the urine, often without pain.
• Prostate Conditions: For men, issues like an enlarged prostate or prostate cancer can sometimes lead to blood in urine.

This is why, even if a UTI is suspected, it’s important for a healthcare professional to conduct a full assessment to rule out other potential causes of hematuria.

Symptoms to look out for

If you’re experiencing blood in your urine alongside other UTI symptoms, it’s crucial to seek medical attention. Some additional symptoms to watch for include:

• Pain or burning sensation during urination
• A frequent, urgent need to urinate
• Strong-smelling urine
• Lower abdominal or pelvic discomfort
• Fever or chills, particularly if you suspect a kidney infection (pyelonephritis)

Should any of these symptoms occur with blood in urine, it’s vital to seek prompt medical advice. It’s also worth noting that recurrent UTIs may require further investigation, as persistent infections could lead to more severe health issues.

Final notes

A UTI can indeed cause blood in urine, and while this symptom can be concerning, it’s not always indicative of a severe problem. UTIs are treatable, especially if caught early, and blood in urine is typically a sign of irritation or inflammation caused by the infection. 

However, it’s important to take the presence of blood in urine seriously and seek medical advice promptly. By understanding the potential causes and treatment options, you can ensure that any urinary symptoms are addressed effectively, helping to prevent complications such as kidney infections or long-term bladder issues.

Related read: How Long Does A UTI Last If Untreated?