Sporatic Blood in Urine

My sister is a diabetic and takes very good care of herself.  She is Type 1 and takes insulin.  She just started noticing blood in her urine but it will only be there like twice and by the time she gets to the doctor's office her urine is clear again and they can find nothing wrong.

She can usually tell just before it happens because she feels terrible.  I don't know what could cause this since there is no infection showing up.  What tests should she ask for? What could cause this?

[Kevin Pho, MD]

There can be many causes for blood in the urine.  Examples would include urinary tract infection, kidney stones, kidney or bladder disease.

Even if there isn't visible blood, a urinalysis should be obtained to look for microscopic blood.  Tests to consider would be a CT scan looking for kidney stones, or a cystoscopy to evaluate the bladder.

These options can be discussed with her personal physician or a urology referral.

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.
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