I experienced blood in my urine to the point it looked like I was peeing black cherry koolaid about 6 years ago. In fear of what it was I went straight to my doctor. I had no pain in my lower back area, the first thought my doctor had was a major kidney infection. But with no back pain or urinary tract pain or bladder pain the concern faded for kidney trouble. I was diagnosed with uti's nearly every visit to the doctor my entire life, even if I wasnt being seen for urinary issue. after that one episode of blood in my urine and taking antibiotics, I hadnt noticed blood in my urine again until late 2008. I had severe pain urinating and could urinate less and less as the pain got worse. I felt as if I had the urgency to pee constantly but could only pee very little when i tried to go. When the pain reached the point that I was getting dizzy from the pain while trying to urinate I decided to contact a urologist myself and make an appt. after all the screening and process of elimination I was diagnosed with inner cisticial systitis. My blader lining deteriorates and its a condition one is born with, a defect in my bladder lining. I had to have surgery to have my bladder expanded with gas and 5 painful weeks of post surgury treatments. The condition is terminal but not fatal. The surgury is suposed to be repeated every 2 to 3 yrs. Very costly surgery too, so I hope you have good insurance. I have not had a second surgery due to the costs, but you can minimize the painful urination through a good diet free of acidic foods. Since I can not afford another surgury at this time, my doctor prescribes me antibiotics which usually get rid of the painful episodes.
hope this helps