How to Prepare for a Telemedicine Visit About Blood in Urine (Hematuria) - Triage

Audience: adult

Blood in the urine, known medically as hematuria, can be a sign of various health issues. If you notice blood in your urine, a telemedicine visit can be a helpful first step to discuss your symptoms with a healthcare provider. During the visit, you will share details about your symptoms, medical history, and any other relevant information. This helps the provider decide if you need further in-person tests or treatments. Telemedicine is often suitable for initial assessments and guidance but may not replace the need for physical exams or lab tests. Preparing for your telemedicine visit by gathering information and noting your symptoms can make the appointment more effective. If you experience severe symptoms like heavy bleeding, pain, or fever, seek urgent in-person care immediately.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Heavy or continuous bleeding in urine requiring urgent medical attention.
• Severe pain in the side, back, or lower abdomen that does not improve.
• Fever above 38°C (100.4°F) with blood in urine, indicating possible infection.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial assessment of visible or non-visible blood in urine without severe symptoms.
• Review of medical history and symptom discussion.
• Guidance on whether further testing or in-person care is needed.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Emergency evaluation for heavy bleeding or severe pain.
• Physical examination requiring direct contact.
• Immediate treatment for infections or conditions needing urgent intervention.

What is Blood in Urine (Hematuria)?

Hematuria means there is blood in your urine. It can look like pink, red, or brown urine or sometimes the blood is invisible and only found in tests. Many different conditions can cause hematuria, from minor issues like a urinary tract infection to more serious problems such as kidney stones or other kidney or bladder conditions.

When to Use Telemedicine for Hematuria

Telemedicine can be a good way to start if you notice blood in your urine but do not have severe symptoms. A healthcare provider can ask questions about your symptoms, medical history, and any medications you take. They can help decide if you need urgent care or if you can schedule tests or follow-up visits in person later.

Preparing for Your Telemedicine Visit

Before your visit, write down when you first noticed blood, how much there is, and if you have other symptoms like pain or fever. Have a list of your current medications and any medical conditions ready. Find a quiet place with good internet or phone connection for the appointment. Be ready to describe your symptoms clearly.

What to Expect During the Telemedicine Visit

The healthcare provider will ask about your symptoms, medical history, and any recent injuries or activities. They may advise you to get urine tests or imaging studies at a local facility. Based on this information, they will guide you on the next steps, which may include seeing a specialist or going to an emergency room if needed.

When to Seek In-Person or Emergency Care

If you have heavy bleeding, severe pain, fever, difficulty urinating, or feel very unwell, you should seek emergency in-person care immediately. These symptoms may indicate a serious problem that needs urgent treatment.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Note when you first noticed blood in your urine and how much you see.
• List any other symptoms you have, such as pain, fever, or changes in urination.
• Prepare a list of your current medications and medical conditions.
• Find a quiet, private place with reliable internet or phone connection for the visit.
• Have a pen and paper ready to take notes during the appointment.

After your tele-visit

• Follow any instructions given by your healthcare provider, including scheduling lab tests or imaging.
• Monitor your symptoms and note any changes or new symptoms.
• Seek in-person care if symptoms worsen or red flags appear.
• Keep a record of test results and follow-up appointments.
• Contact your provider if you have questions or concerns after the visit.

FAQs

Can telemedicine diagnose the cause of blood in my urine?

Telemedicine can help your healthcare provider understand your symptoms and decide if you need further tests. However, diagnosing the exact cause often requires urine tests, imaging, or physical exams that must be done in person.

What should I do if I see blood in my urine but feel fine?

It is important to have your symptoms evaluated by a healthcare provider. You can start with a telemedicine visit to discuss your symptoms and get advice on next steps.

When should I go to the emergency room for blood in my urine?

Go to the emergency room if you have heavy or continuous bleeding, severe pain, fever, difficulty urinating, or feel very unwell. These signs may indicate a serious condition needing immediate care.

Will I need to provide a urine sample during my telemedicine visit?

You cannot provide a urine sample during a telemedicine visit, but your provider may ask you to get urine tests done at a local lab or clinic after the appointment.

Can medications cause blood in urine?

Yes, some medications, such as blood thinners, can cause blood in urine. Be sure to tell your provider about all medications you are taking.

Sources

1. Hematuria — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine / National Institutes of Health.
2. Hematuria: Causes and Diagnosis — Mayo Clinic.
3. Blood in Urine (Hematuria) — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
4. Hematuria: Evaluation and Management — National Library of Medicine.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational and triage purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If you have severe symptoms or concerns, please seek direct evaluation by a healthcare professional.