Blood in the Urine
What Is Blood in the Urine (Hematuria)?
The presence of blood in the urine, or “hematuria,” is a condition whose cause must be determined. Although it usually results from benign conditions such as urinary tract infections, urinary tract stones, kidney cysts, or an enlarged prostate, it can also be caused by a more serious or malignant condition.
Blood in the urine may not always be visible to the naked eye. If the amount is too small to change the color of the urine, it can only be detected through chemical tests or by examining the urine sediment under a microscope.
As soon as you notice this color change in your urine, you should consult a urologist as soon as possible. Remember, early diagnosis saves lives.
What Causes Hematuria?
⦁ Urinary tract infections, Kidney infections (pyelonephritis)
For some people, especially older adults, the only symptom of the condition may be microscopic blood in the urine.
⦁ Bladder or kidney stones
Stones are usually painless, so you may not realize you have a kidney stone unless it causes a blockage or is passed. Bladder or kidney stones can also cause blood in the urine.
⦁ Enlarged prostate
An enlarged prostate compresses the urinary tract, partially blocking urine flow. This can cause blood in the urine. A prostate infection (prostatitis) can cause the same signs and symptoms.
⦁ Cancer
Visible blood in the urine may be a sign of advanced kidney, bladder, or prostate cancer.
⦁ Inherited disorders
Sickle cell anemia, an inherited hemoglobin defect in red blood cells, causes both visible and microscopic hematuria.
⦁ Trauma
A blow to your kidneys or bladder—or another injury resulting from an accident or contact sport—can cause visible blood in your urine.
⦁ Medications
Blood in the urine may occur as a result of taking certain medications. For this reason, when you come in for an examination due to blood in your urine, you must be sure to inform your doctor about any medications you are taking.
⦁ Excessive exercise
It is rare for excessive exercise to cause gross hematuria, and the cause is unknown. Bladder trauma resulting from prolonged aerobic exercise may be associated with dehydration or the breakdown of red blood cells.
Runners are the group most affected by this condition, but anyone can develop visible blood in their urine after an intense workout. However, if you notice blood in your urine after exercising—even if you suspect it’s due to the exercise—be sure to consult your doctor.
How Is Hematuria Diagnosed?
The following tests and examinations are used to determine the cause of blood in your urine:
⦁ Physical examination
⦁ Urinalysis
⦁ Imaging tests:Typically, an imaging test is needed to determine the cause of hematuria. Your doctor may recommend a CT scan, MRI, or ultrasound.
⦁ Cystoscopy: Your doctormay insert a small camera into your bladder to examine your bladder and urethra for signs of disease.
Sometimes the cause of blood in the urine cannot be determined. In this case, your doctor may recommend regular follow-up tests, especially if you have risk factors for bladder cancer, such as a history of smoking, exposure to environmental toxins, or radiation therapy.
How Is Hematuria Treated?
Treatment for hematuria is determined based on the underlying cause. If hematuria is caused by a urinary tract infection, treatment involves taking antibiotics to clear the infection; if it is caused by an enlarged prostate, treatment involves using a prescription medication to reduce the size of the prostate. In some cases, no treatment is necessary.
If the cause of blood in the urine cannot be determined or if the patient has risk factors for bladder cancer, patients should remain under medical supervision, as they may need to undergo follow-up urine tests every 3 to 6 months and have their blood pressure monitored.
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