Does prostate cancer cause blood in urine?

Blood may be visible as pink, red or brown urine, or found only on a urine test. Prostate cancer can affect nearby urinary structures and cause bleeding, particularly when the disease changes the prostate or urinary passage. However, infection, kidney or bladder problems, stones, prostate enlargement, vigorous exercise and some medicines can also cause blood in urine. The symptom alone cannot identify its cause.

A clinician may ask when the bleeding began, whether it comes and goes, and whether you have pain, burning, fever, a weak stream or changes in your usual pattern. Testing may include a urine sample, blood tests and an examination, with further tests arranged when appropriate.

Arrange a medical appointment promptly if you notice blood in your urine, even if it happens once or settles. Bring a list of medicines and describe any clots, pain, fever or difficulty passing urine. Do not stop prescribed blood-thinning medicine without medical advice. A clinician can decide which tests are suitable and whether a urology referral is needed.

Seek urgent medical help if you cannot pass urine, the bleeding is heavy or persistent, you pass clots, or you feel faint or very unwell. Fever with chills, severe pain in the side or back, or vomiting alongside urinary symptoms also needs prompt assessment.

Ask what might explain the bleeding, which urine or blood tests are needed, whether your prostate needs examination, and what symptoms should make you seek urgent help. You can also ask when you should expect follow-up and whether any medicine or activity could be contributing.