Blood in your urine is called hematuria. Hematuria is the most common symptom of bladder cancer, seen in approximately 85% of patients with the disease.
See Red?
What Should I Do If I See Red?
Blood in the urine is the most common symptom of bladder cancer. Don't ignore this warning sign. Not even once.
What is Hematuria?
Hematuria and Bladder Cancer
In bladder cancer, the bleeding comes directly from the cancer tumour, however minor it may be. The amount of blood may be very small and only detected with urine tests or under a microscope. In other cases, the blood is visible in urine and often turns the toilet water red or pink. You may also see spots of blood in the water after urinating.
Does Blood In My Urine Mean I Have Bladder Cancer?
Not necessarily. Several conditions can cause blood in your urine, such as a bladder infection or urinary tract infection (UTI). Just because there is no pain, your condition may still be serious. It’s important to be checked by your doctor as soon as possible to seek treatment for what’s causing the blood in the urine and to rule out bladder cancer as the cause.
I Have Blood In My Urine. What Should I Do?
- Don’t ignore the symptoms of bladder cancer. Your bladder may depend upon it. Your life may depend upon it!
- See your family doctor or go to a walk-in clinic as soon as possible.
- If a bladder infection is suspected, ask for tests to confirm.
- If there is any doubt, ask for a referral to a urologist.
- Early detection of bladder cancer is critical to receiving timely and effective treatment. It may save your life!
What Are Some Of The Other Symptoms Of Bladder Cancer?
Aside from blood in the urine, other symptoms of bladder cancer may include:
- Abdominal pain
- Bone pain or tenderness if the cancer spreads to the bone
- Fatigue
- Painful urination
- Urinary frequency and urgency
- Urine leakage (incontinence)
- Weight loss
What Happens Once I See a Urologist?
To see if you may have bladder cancer, the urologist will do a cystoscopy. A small camera on a thin tube is inserted into your bladder through your urethra. You’re awake for this test, but the urethra is numbed with gel. It’s a quick exam and is essential. The urologist will also check your urine for abnormal cells and may order both an ultrasound and a CT scan.