Can kidney stones cause blood in urine?

Yes, kidney stones can cause blood in the urine (hematuria). As a stone moves through the urinary tract, it may scratch or irritate the lining of the kidneys, ureters, or bladder, resulting in bleeding. The urine may appear pink, red, or brown, while in some cases, blood is only detected during a urine test.

Blood in the urine, medically known as hematuria, is one of the most common symptoms of kidney stones. It occurs when a stone travels through the urinary tract and irritates or damages the delicate lining of the kidneys, ureters, or bladder. 

Some people notice visible blood that turns the urine pink, red, or brown. Others may have microscopic hematuria, where blood is present but can only be detected through laboratory testing. 

Kidney stones often cause additional symptoms along with blood in the urine, including: 

•  Severe pain in the back, side, or lower abdomen 
•  Pain that radiates towards the groin 
•  Burning sensation while urinating 
•  Frequent urge to urinate 
•  Nausea or vomiting 
•  Difficulty passing urine 

The amount of blood does not always indicate the size of the stone. Even a small stone can cause noticeable bleeding, while a larger stone may cause very little visible blood.

Although kidney stones are a common cause of blood in the urine, they are not the only one. Urinary tract infections (UTIs), bladder stones, kidney infections, prostate conditions, and other urinary disorders can also lead to hematuria. That is why blood in the urine should never be ignored and should always be evaluated by a qualified urologist.

To identify the exact cause, your doctor may recommend investigations such as a urine test, ultrasound, CT KUB scan, or blood tests. Once the cause is confirmed, treatment is planned according to the size, location, and severity of the kidney stone. Small stones may pass with medication and increased fluid intake, while larger stones may require advanced minimally invasive procedures such as RIRS, URS, or PCNL.

Expert Kidney Stone Care at SCI International Hospital 

If you notice blood in your urine, it is important to seek medical evaluation rather than waiting for the symptom to disappear. At SCI International Hospital, New Delhi, Dr. Gautam Banga, Senior Consultant Urologist and Andrologist, provides comprehensive diagnosis and advanced treatment for kidney stones. Using modern techniques such as RIRS, URS, and PCNL, he offers personalized treatment plans aimed at faster recovery, minimal discomfort, and long-term kidney health.