Don’t panic. But don’t wait, either.
Blood in urine — haematuria — is one of the symptoms that sends people into either immediate panic or complete denial. Neither helps. Here is what Dr. Hecham Ahmed, Specialist Urologist at American Hospital Clinics Doha actually wants you to know: it always warrants investigation. It does not always mean cancer. But finding out which category you fall into requires a proper assessment — not waiting.
What Causes Blood in Urine?
The causes range from entirely benign to urgent. Here are the most common:
Urinary tract infection (UTI):
The most common cause. Bacterial infection inflames the bladder lining. Usually accompanied by burning, urgency, and frequency.
Kidney stones:
Sharp-edged stones scraping the ureter or bladder wall. Often accompanied by characteristic wave-like flank pain.
Vigorous exercise:
Long-distance running can cause exercise-induced haematuria. Usually resolves with rest — but always requires confirmation by a doctor.
Enlarged prostate (BPH):
In men over 40, benign prostatic enlargement can cause blood in urine alongside urinary difficulty.
Kidney disease:
Conditions like glomerulonephritis cause blood to leak from damaged kidney filters without pain.
Bladder or kidney cancer:
Painless, visible blood in urine in any adult over 40 is a red flag requiring urgent investigation.
The most important rule: Painless blood in urine in anyone over 40 should be treated as bladder or kidney cancer until proven otherwise. Investigation must be prompt.
How Is Hematuria Investigated at American Hospital Clinics Doha?
Urine Analysis & Culture
Confirms blood is present, checks for infection, and looks for abnormal cells under microscopy. Available same day.
Ultrasound
Non-invasive, radiation-free imaging of the kidneys and bladder. Identifies stones, masses, and structural abnormalities. Performed immediately in our clinic.
CT Urogram
More detailed cross-sectional imaging that identifies smaller lesions and characterises masses with greater precision when ultrasound is insufficient.
Cystoscopy
A thin scope passed into the bladder under local anaesthesia allows direct visualisation of the bladder lining. The definitive test for bladder cancer. Performed in-clinic.
Blood Tests
Kidney function (creatinine, eGFR), PSA for men, and full blood count to assess for anaemia or systemic infection.
Medically reviewed and endorsed by:
Department Review & Clinical Oversight
Urology Department
American Hospital Clinics Doha
"A single episode of painless visible blood in urine in an adult over 40 is enough to trigger a full urological investigation. Even if it resolved on its own. Even if it happened just once. Early-stage bladder cancer found during hematuria workup is highly treatable. Delayed investigation is what turns treatable into serious."
Why Choose American Hospital Clinics Doha?
✔ Specialist Urologist — Dr. Hecham Ahmed, QCHP P4319
✔ Same-day urine analysis and renal ultrasound available
✔ In-clinic cystoscopy under local anaesthesia — no hospital admission required
✔ Rapid results with clear personalised next steps
✔ Male and female urology services available
✔ Most major Qatar insurance plans accepted
Your health is managed with precision, safety, and long-term care — by specialists who treat people, not just conditions.
What Our Patients in Doha Say
— James O., 45, Doha · Verified Patient
— Laila H., 39, Al Rayyan · Verified Patient
FAQs
My urine was pink just once and is now normal. Do I still need to see someone?
Could the blood just be from something I ate?
Is it painful to have a cystoscopy?
What are the risk factors for bladder cancer?
How soon can I get a haematuria assessment at American Hospital Clinics Doha?
If I have bladder cancer, is it treatable?
Book Your Hematuria Assessment Today
One episode of blood in urine is enough reason. Do not wait for it to happen again.
C Ring Road, Al Muntazah Street, Doha, Qatar
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