A to Z: Hematuria (Blood in Urine)

A to Z: Hematuria (Blood in Urine)

May also be called: Blood in Urine

Hematuria is a medical term that means there is blood in the urine (pee). Hematuria is a common condition that can have many different causes. Treatments used will depend on the underlying cause.

More to Know

Blood in the urine often comes from somewhere in the urinary tract, which includes the kidneys, bladder, ureters (tube-like structures that connect the kidneys to the bladder), and the urethra (the tube that carries urine from the bladder out of the body).

The blood may make the urine appear pink, red, or tea-colored. Other times, the blood is invisible to the naked eye and is only seen when a urine sample is viewed under a microscope. (This is called "microscopic hematuria.")

Common causes of blood in the urine include urinary tract infections (UTIs), kidney stones, irritation of the urethra, injuries, and vigorous exercise. There are many less common causes, and sometimes blood appears in the urine even though there is no underlying problem.

Keep in Mind

Hematuria requires medical attention. To determine the cause of the hematuria, a doctor might order several tests, including urine tests, blood tests, an ultrasound, a CT scan, or others. If a problem is found, your doctor will either treat it or refer your child to a specialist.

All A to Z dictionary entries are regularly reviewed by KidsHealth medical experts.

Related Resources

National Kidney Foundation (NKF) NKF seeks to prevent kidney and urinary tract diseases, improve the health and well-being of individuals and families affected by these diseases, and increase the availability of all organs for transplantation.

Nephron Information Center The Nephron Information Center offers information about how the kidneys work, transplants, and links to other sites.

American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) The AAP is committed to the health and well-being of infants, adolescents, and young adults. The website offers news articles and tips on health for families.

American Academy of Family Physicians This site, operated by the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP), provides information on family physicians and health care, a directory of family physicians, and resources on health conditions.

Urine Tests Is your child having a urine culture or urinalysis performed? Find out why urine tests are performed, and what to expect when the doctor orders them.

Ultrasound: Renal (Kidneys, Ureters, Bladder) A renal ultrasound makes images of your child's kidneys, ureters, and bladder. Doctors may order this test if they suspect kidney damage, cysts, tumors, kidney stones, or complications from urinary tract infections.

Urinary Tract Infections Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are common in kids, but often can be prevented. Early detection and treatment are key.

Recurrent Urinary Tract Infections and Related Conditions Recurrent urinary tract infections can cause kidney damage if left untreated, especially in kids under age 6. Here's how to recognize the symptom of UTIs and get help for your child.

Kidneys and Urinary Tract The bean-shaped kidneys, each about the size of a child's fist, perform several functions essential to health. Their most important role is to filter blood and produce urine.