Blood in Urine (Haematuria): When to Worry & Online Doctor Guide
Educational information — not medical advice.
This article was prepared by the OnlineDoctor24 editorial team and reviewed for factual accuracy against UK clinical guidance (NHS and NICE). It is not written by a doctor and does not replace personal medical advice. For symptoms specific to you, book an online doctor consultation.
Key points
- Blood in urine always needs medical assessment.
- Common causes: UTI, kidney stones, prostate issues.
- In adults over 45, visible blood requires urgent referral to exclude bladder cancer.
- Microscopic blood (only on dipstick) needs investigation but less urgently.
- An online GP can assess and arrange urgent referral.
Causes
- UTI
- Kidney stones
- Prostate enlargement or infection
- Bladder or kidney cancer
- Glomerulonephritis (kidney inflammation)
- Vigorous exercise, menstruation, certain medications
Investigation
- Urine dipstick and culture.
- Blood tests — kidney function, FBC.
- Imaging (ultrasound or CT).
- Cystoscopy under urology if cancer suspected.
When an online doctor can help
An online GP can assess symptoms, send for urine tests, and issue an urgent (2-week wait) referral to urology when needed.
Red flags — when to seek urgent help
Call 999 or go to A&E if you experience any of the following:
- Visible blood in urine in anyone over 45 — urgent referral
- Painless visible blood — particularly concerning
- Severe loin pain (kidney stones)
- Fever, shivers (kidney infection)
Frequently asked questions
Common questions UK patients ask about haematuria.
How an online doctor can help
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This article is for general information only and does not replace personal medical advice from a qualified doctor. Content is reviewed against UK NHS and NICE guidance by the OnlineDoctor24 editorial team and is not authored by a medical doctor. If your symptoms worsen or you are unsure, please book a consultation with a GMC-registered GP.
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