What should you know about erythrocytes urinalysis?

A small amount may occur because of a urinary infection, a kidney infection, a stone, vigorous exercise, or contamination from menstrual blood. Prostate enlargement can also affect urinary symptoms in some men. The laboratory may report blood seen under a microscope or a dipstick result that needs confirmation. One abnormal result does not identify a single cause.

Your clinician interprets the finding alongside pain or burning when passing urine, frequent urination, visible blood, fever, flank pain, medicines, and whether the sample was collected during menstruation. A repeat, clean-catch sample may be useful when contamination or a temporary cause is possible.

Arrange a clinical review if the result was unexpected, persistent, or accompanied by urinary symptoms. Take the report and mention recent exercise, menstruation, injuries, kidney problems, and all medicines. Do not start leftover antibiotics. If infection is suspected, a urine test may guide treatment; antibiotics are used only when a clinician considers them appropriate.

Seek urgent medical help for heavy or worsening visible blood, inability to pass urine, severe side or back pain, fever with shaking chills, vomiting, confusion, or marked weakness. These symptoms can need prompt assessment for obstruction or a more serious infection. Contact a clinician soon if blood keeps returning even when you feel well.

Ask what type of blood result was found, whether the sample should be repeated, and whether urine culture, blood tests, or imaging is appropriate. Ask how your symptoms and medicines change the interpretation, and when you should report another episode of visible blood.