Blood in Urine Newcastle (Haematuria)
Blood in the urine should always be checked, even once, even if it is painless and even if it goes away. Most causes are not serious, but prompt investigation is how treatable causes are identified early. A rapid one-stop assessment is designed to give you answers without delay.
What is haematuria?
Haematuria means blood in the urine. It may be:
- Visible, turning the urine pink, red or brown
- Non-visible, detected only on a urine dip test or under the microscope
Either form is worth taking seriously.
Most causes of blood in the urine are not serious. Common explanations include urinary tract infection, kidney or bladder stones and in men an enlarged prostate. Occasionally it can follow strenuous exercise and settle quickly.
However, blood in the urine can also be the first and sometimes only sign of a more serious condition such as bladder or kidney cancer. These conditions are often very treatable when found early, which is why haematuria should never be ignored.
The aim of assessment is to identify the cause clearly and efficiently. For most people the result is reassurance. For a smaller number it allows early diagnosis and timely treatment.
Visible and non-visible blood
Blood in the urine presents in two main forms and both require assessment.
Visible haematuria
Urine that appears pink, red or brown, sometimes with clots. Even a single episode that clears should be investigated.
Non-visible haematuria
Blood detected on testing but not seen by the eye. It is often found during routine checks.
Do not wait for it to return
If blood appears once and disappears, it still deserves investigation. Waiting for it to recur can delay diagnosis. Early assessment is the most sensible course of action.
What can cause blood in the urine?
There are many possible causes and most are benign. Investigation distinguishes between them.
Infection
Urinary tract infections are a common and treatable cause.
Stones
Kidney or bladder stones may cause bleeding and often pain.
Enlarged prostate
In men, benign enlargement of the prostate is a frequent cause of visible bleeding.
Causes to rule out
Less commonly, bleeding may be linked to bladder or kidney tumours. Early detection improves treatment options.
How we investigate blood in the urine
A one-stop pathway brings together key investigations so you can get clarity quickly. Your consultant selects the tests you need based on your age, history and type of bleeding.
Urine tests and cytology
A urine sample is checked for infection and blood and may be examined for abnormal cells.
Flexible cystoscopy
A thin flexible camera is used to inspect the bladder lining directly under local anaesthetic.
Ultrasound scan
A painless scan of the kidneys and bladder to identify stones or other structural causes.
CT urogram
Where appropriate, a detailed scan assesses the kidneys, ureters and bladder.
From investigation to answer
Assessment often combines urine testing with imaging and flexible cystoscopy. Together these identify or rule out a cause efficiently.
Not every patient needs every test. Evaluation is tailored rather than routine.
For most people the outcome is reassurance with a benign cause identified. For those who require further care, early investigation means conditions are detected at the most treatable stage and managed promptly.
Why choose The Forbury Clinic for blood in urine assessment in Newcastle?
Rapid one-stop assessment
Consultation, urine testing and imaging are coordinated to shorten the wait for answers.
Proportionate investigation
Testing is selected carefully rather than applying a blanket approach.
Reassurance or early action
Peace of mind for most people and timely treatment for those who need it.
Consultant-led direct access
You are seen by an experienced urologist throughout and self-referral is welcome.
Frequently asked questions
I only saw blood once and it stopped. Do I still need to be checked?
Yes. A single episode of visible blood in the urine should be assessed even if it disappears.
Does blood in the urine mean cancer?
Usually not. Most causes are benign. Investigation is important because haematuria can occasionally signal a serious condition.
What does the assessment involve?
Typically a consultation, urine tests, imaging and often a flexible cystoscopy. The exact tests depend on your individual circumstances.
Is it painful or invasive?
Investigations are generally well tolerated. Flexible cystoscopy is performed under local anaesthetic.
Do I need a GP referral?
No. You can self-refer and arrange an appointment directly.
Book your urology consultation today
Consultations are available to book online for patients with or without a GP referral. Our private specialists provide world-class care in a discrete environment.
- AppointmentBook a consultation
- Reception01189207055
- Location
The Beverley Hospital, The Edge, Fifth Ave, Team Valley, Gateshead NE11 0XA
