Red Flags & When to Go In Person for Blood in Urine (Hematuria) - Triage

Audience: adult

Blood in the urine, known medically as hematuria, can be a sign of various health conditions. Sometimes, it may be caused by minor issues like a urinary tract infection or exercise, but other times it might indicate more serious problems such as kidney stones or bladder issues. Telemedicine can help you understand your symptoms and decide if you need urgent care. However, certain warning signs require in-person evaluation to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment. This guide helps you recognize these red flags and explains when to seek immediate medical attention. It also outlines what telemedicine can and cannot do for blood in urine, helping you prepare for a virtual visit and know what to expect afterward. Remember, timely care can prevent complications, so knowing when to go in person is important for your health and safety.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Heavy bleeding causing dark urine with clots — go to emergency care immediately.
• Severe pain in side, back, or lower abdomen — seek urgent in-person evaluation.
• Fever over 38°C (100.4°F) with chills — requires prompt medical attention.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial symptom assessment and history taking for blood in urine.
• Guidance on when to seek in-person care.
• Ordering laboratory tests and reviewing results remotely.
• Follow-up consultations after initial diagnosis or treatment.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Physical examination requiring palpation or imaging procedures.
• Emergency situations with severe bleeding or pain.
• Procedures like catheterization or surgery.
• Immediate treatment of life-threatening complications.

What is Blood in Urine (Hematuria)?

Blood in urine means there are red blood cells in your urine, which can make it look pink, red, or brown. Sometimes, the blood is not visible and is found only during a urine test. Hematuria can come from different parts of the urinary system, including the kidneys, bladder, or urethra. Causes range from infections and stones to injuries or more serious conditions. Understanding the cause is key to proper care.

Common Causes of Hematuria

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Many causes are treatable, but some require urgent care.

When to Use Telemedicine for Blood in Urine

Telemedicine can be helpful if you notice blood in your urine but have no other serious symptoms. A healthcare provider can ask about your medical history, symptoms, and risk factors. They may recommend urine tests or imaging if needed. Telemedicine is useful for follow-up visits and managing mild symptoms.

Red Flags That Need In-Person Care

Seek urgent in-person medical care if you experience:

These signs may indicate serious conditions requiring immediate evaluation.

Preparing for a Telemedicine Visit

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After Your Telemedicine Visit

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How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Note the onset and duration of blood in urine.
• Record any associated symptoms such as pain, fever, or urinary changes.
• List all current medications and supplements.
• Prepare your medical history including kidney or bladder conditions.
• Ensure a quiet, private space with a reliable internet connection for your tele-visit.

After your tele-visit

• Complete any recommended laboratory or imaging tests promptly.
• Follow prescribed treatments or medications as directed.
• Schedule in-person follow-up if advised by your provider.
• Monitor symptoms and watch for any red flags.
• Contact your healthcare provider if symptoms worsen or new symptoms appear.

FAQs

Can blood in urine go away on its own?

Sometimes, blood in urine caused by minor issues like exercise or mild infections may resolve without treatment. However, it is important to have any blood in urine evaluated by a healthcare provider to rule out serious causes.

Is blood in urine always visible?

No. Blood in urine can be visible (called gross hematuria) or microscopic, meaning it is only detected by laboratory tests. Both types should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.

What tests might be needed to find the cause of blood in urine?

Common tests include urine analysis, urine culture, blood tests, ultrasound, or other imaging studies. Your healthcare provider will decide which tests are appropriate based on your symptoms and history.

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

Go to the emergency room if you have heavy bleeding with clots, severe pain, inability to urinate, or signs of infection like high fever and chills. These symptoms require immediate evaluation.

Can telemedicine diagnose the cause of blood in urine?

Telemedicine can help assess your symptoms and guide initial testing, but some causes require physical exams or imaging that need in-person visits.

Sources

1. Hematuria — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Evaluation of Hematuria in Adults — National Library of Medicine.
3. Hematuria (Blood in Urine) — Mayo Clinic.
4. Blood in Urine (Hematuria) — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

This telemedicine guidance is for educational and triage purposes only and is not a substitute for professional in-person medical evaluation, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have any concerning symptoms or red flags, seek immediate medical care.