What could cause blood in a male’s urine?

In healthy individuals, urine is typically a pale yellow liquid. If urine appears red, it indicates the presence of blood—termed hematuria. In daily life, some people notice blood in their urine during urination, with the urine appearing slightly reddish—a finding that understandably causes significant concern. So, what could cause hematuria in men? Below, we address this question.

What Causes Hematuria in Men?

1. Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) and Inflammatory Conditions

Most urinary tract inflammatory conditions can potentially cause hematuria. Inflammation affecting different anatomical sites often presents with distinct accompanying symptoms. For example: - Hematuria accompanied by facial and generalized edema and elevated blood pressure may indicate acute glomerulonephritis; - Hematuria associated with urinary hesitancy and urethral orifice pain is commonly seen in prostatitis; - Hematuria accompanied by severe urinary frequency, urgency, and dysuria strongly suggests acute cystitis.

2. Urinary Tract Stones

Large stones or those with rough, jagged surfaces may abrade the urothelial lining as they move through the urinary tract, resulting in bleeding. Thus, regardless of location—whether in the renal pelvis, bladder, ureter, or urethra—urinary stones can cause hemorrhage. Blood then enters the urine, leading to visible or microscopic hematuria.

3. Urinary Tract Tumors

Malignant tumors—i.e., cancers—can inflict severe damage on the body. When arising in any part of the urinary system—or even in adjacent organs—they may invade the urinary tract and cause hematuria. Notably, such hematuria is often asymptomatic or occurs without other obvious clinical signs, making it easy to overlook.

The above outlines potential causes of hematuria in men. We hope this information proves helpful.