OpenHealth Q&A

Experiencing Blood in Urine and Stool: Should I Seek Immediate Care?

I’m reaching out for guidance regarding a concerning health issue. I have noticed blood in both my urine and stool and am uncertain about whether this situation requires urgent medical attention. I've already consulted with my primary care physician and have an appointment scheduled for tomorrow. A urinalysis was also carried out, and I'm currently awaiting the results. At 25 years old and assigned female at birth, I generally consider myself to be in good health, though I do have some chronic medical conditions. The blood in my urine began three days ago, progressively darkening over time. I discovered blood in my stool two days back, and today it presented as bright red. My existing chronic conditions, listed without any particular order, include: Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), blocked fallopian tubes, severe persistent asthma with acute exacerbations, exertional dyspnea, unspecified interstitial lung disease, patent foramen ovale (PFO), non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), positive antibodies for Hepatitis C, previously treated chronic anemia, migraine headaches, benign vertigo disorder (BVD), Epstein-Barr Virus, esophageal dysmotility, overactive bladder (OAB), recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs), and a left renal cyst that is currently untreated. I have a past diagnosis and history of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR), which was surgically addressed two months ago, with confirmed successful results. ### Surgical Background: - Spinal fusion with Harrington rods (T3-L1, 2017) - Gallbladder removal (2020) - C-section (2021) - Septoplasty (2024) - Hiatal hernia repair and Toupet fundoplication (January 2, 2025) ### Current Medications: - Amitriptyline 25mg at bedtime - Rizatriptan 10mg as needed for migraines - Ubrelvy 50mg as needed for migraines - Aripiprazole 2mg at bedtime - Montelukast 10mg at bedtime - Tizanidine 4mg once daily - Meloxicam 15mg once daily - Methylphenidate 18mg in the morning - Breztri Aerosphere Inhaler: 2 puffs twice daily - Airsupra Aerosphere Inhaler: 2 puffs as needed - Levalbuterol inhalation nebulizer 0.63mg/2ml as needed ### Over-the-Counter Medications: - Biotrue lubricant eye drops - Acetaminophen as needed I've experienced an unintentional weight loss of 15 pounds over the past six weeks, which is worth noting. My job involves significant physical demands, requiring me to lift items and walk up to 12 miles a day in outdoor heat. Though I strive to stay properly hydrated, my urine is becoming increasingly darker despite adequate fluid intake. I had been struggling with chronic diarrhea, which resolved just three days before I observed the bloody stool. In November 2024, I was diagnosed with left-sided colitis accompanied by bloody stools. A recent colonoscopy performed a month ago revealed only a tortuous colon. Additionally, I completed five rounds of iron infusions two weeks ago to address low hemoglobin levels. Currently, I do not have any pain, fever, or difficulty while having bowel movements; the stool itself is solid but has rough edges. I’m also not experiencing discomfort or burning during urination, nor do I have any pelvic or lower back pain. However, I've noticed that my urination is less frequent than usual. I take no medications that are known to alter urine color or potentially cause the presence of blood. I apologize for the lengthy information, but I wanted to be thorough. I am unsure what details are most critical in this scenario, and I would greatly appreciate any advice or insights on how to proceed.

Answers (1)

4/1/2025, 9:40:44 PM

OpenHealth AI

It's completely understandable to feel anxious about noticing blood in both your urine and stool, especially given your existing health conditions. It's very important to prioritize your health in this situation. Since you already have an appointment scheduled with your primary care physician for tomorrow and have had a urinalysis conducted, you are on the right track.

Key Points:

1. Urgent Concerns: Blood in urine (hematuria) and blood in stool (hematochezia) can signify various underlying issues that may require immediate attention.
2. Current Health Status: Your chronic conditions, recent weight loss, and prior diagnosis of left-sided colitis add complexity to your symptoms, which merits careful evaluation.

Explanation:

• Blood in Urine: This can arise from urinary tract infections, kidney stones, or more serious conditions. The darkening of urine over a few days is a notable change.
• Blood in Stool: Bright red blood often indicates bleeding from the lower gastrointestinal tract. Given your history of left-sided colitis, this could be related, but new or worsening symptoms should be evaluated thoroughly.
• Health Context: Because you have a background of chronic conditions and recent medical interventions, such as iron infusions, your overall health could be affected by these symptoms.

Immediate Next Steps:

1. Monitor Symptoms Closely: Keep track of any additional changes, such as increased frequency of blood in urine or stool, new symptoms like abdominal pain, fever, or changes in bowel habits.

2. Stay Hydrated: Continue to drink adequate fluids to potentially help with the darker urine; however, the presence of blood must still be prioritized.

3. Avoid Strain: Given your physically demanding job, try to minimize heavy lifting or excessive physical activity until you have a clearer understanding of your condition.

4. Prepare for Your Appointment: Write down any questions or symptoms you've experienced, including when they started, to discuss with your physician. Make sure to mention the blood in urine and stool, any changes in weight, and the resolution of diarrhea.

When to Seek Immediate Attention:

• If you experience new symptoms including fever, severe abdominal or flank pain, or if the bleeding worsens significantly, it may be necessary to seek immediate care before your scheduled appointment.

This is a lot to process, and it is okay to feel concerned. Please remember that the medical team is there to help you navigate these symptoms effectively. You're taking the right steps by seeking medical advice. Let us know if you'd like more information or have additional concerns.