Blood in the Urine/Urge to Urinate

I am a very active 53 year old male. I exercise every day for at least an hour.  Two weeks ago, a Tuesday, after returning from my 1 1/2 hour bike ride I noticed blood in my urine.  On the Sunday just prior I did go on a leasurely bike ride and had some abdominal pain for no apparent reason. I didn't think much of it and the urine returned to its normal color that evening.  The next day I lifted weights for an hour and no problem.  However, the following day, Thursday, after a 6-mile run I noticed blood again, this time with bloody strands. Approximately an hour after the run I experienced pain in the right side and kidney area.  This lasted for about two hours.  I went to my doctor that evening, taking with me an "old blood" sample.  They did detect blood in the urine but after sending it to the lab, detected no infection.  The doctor recommended I see a urologist. I continue to workout at the gym, only doing about an hours-worth of cardio and weight training. I'm afraid if I do the two other exercises I will induce the bleeding.  During these workouts I notice an urge to urinate, even though I go before.  When I stop exercising the feeling is not as strong.  I know I could probably induce the blood again by running or biking but feel it may not be in my best interest. I also notice that I do have abdominal pain more often than ever in the past but it comes and goes and is relatively benign.  I have not changed anything in my diet or lifestyle.  The only medication I take is Effexor XR (225Mgms/day) but have been taking this for about 4 years now.  Other than that I do take vitamins (C, Garlic, Fish Oil, Gingko, Multivitamin, cranberry tab, bilberry tab, and glucosomine, and 80mg aspirin) and have a pretty healthy diet.
Prior to making an appointment with a urologist I wanted to get your advice. I am less than comfortable with the situation...    Confused in Centreville....


Thanks in Advance,

Mark B.

[Kevin Pho, MD]

Blood in the urine can be caused by prostate diseases, a kidney stone, kidney diseases, bladder cancer or a lower urinary tract infection.

More serious causes like cancer always needs to be ruled out.  This would likely include a cystoscopy to evaluate for bladder cancer as well as a thorough prostate exam to evaluate for prostate cancer.

If those tests are negative, then things like kidney stones (evaluated with a CT scan) as well as kidney diseases can be evaluated for.

These options should be discussed with your urologist.

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin, M.D.
Medical Weblog:
kevinmd_b

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