Hematuria refers to the presence of blood in the urine. It can be a frightening experience for anyone who sees blood in their urine for the first time. However, in many cases, it may not be a serious issue, and the bleeding may stop on its own.

Nevertheless, it is essential to understand the underlying causes of hematuria. In this article, we will take you on a visual journey to help you get a better understanding of hematuria and its causes.

Types of Hematuria

There are two types of hematuria – gross hematuria and microscopic hematuria.

Gross Hematuria

Gross hematuria refers to visible blood in the urine. It can range from a few red specks to red urine. Gross hematuria is a cause for concern, and one should seek medical attention immediately.

Microscopic Hematuria

Microscopic hematuria refers to the presence of red blood cells (RBC) in the urine that can’t be seen with the naked eye.

It is usually detected during a routine medical check-up or with the help of a urine test that can identify the presence of RBCs.

Causes of Hematuria

Hematuria can be caused by several factors. Some of the most common causes include:.

Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)

UTIs are one of the most common causes of hematuria. UTI occurs when bacteria infect the urinary tract, which includes the bladder, ureters, urethra, and kidneys.

The infection can cause inflammation and irritation of the urinary tract, leading to bleeding.

Kidney Stones

Kidney stones are hard mineral and salt deposits that form inside the kidneys. They can cause intense pain, nausea, and vomiting, and also lead to hematuria.

Bladder Stones

Bladder stones are mineral and salt deposits that form inside the bladder. Bladder stones can cause irritation in the bladder walls, leading to hematuria.

Enlarged Prostate

The prostate gland is located just below the bladder in men. With age, the prostate gland can enlarge, causing urethra obstruction and leading to hematuria.

Kidney Disease

Kidney disease can cause hematuria due to the inflammation and damage to the kidneys. Some underlying causes of kidney disease include high blood pressure, diabetes, and infections.

Cancer

Cancer can cause hematuria in some cases. Some cancers that can lead to hematuria include bladder cancer, kidney cancer, prostate cancer, and others.

Treatment Options for Hematuria

The treatment options for hematuria depend on the underlying cause. Some common treatment options include:.

Antibiotics

If the cause of hematuria is a UTI, antibiotics can help clear the infection and relieve the symptoms of hematuria.

Surgery

If the underlying cause of hematuria is kidney stones or bladder stones, surgery may be required to remove them. If cancer is the cause of the hematuria, surgery may be required to remove the affected tissue or organ.

Medication

If an enlarged prostate is the cause of the hematuria, medication can help relieve the symptoms. Medication can also help treat underlying conditions that may be causing the hematuria.

Preventing Hematuria

While some causes of hematuria are unavoidable, there are some steps you can take to lower your risk of developing hematuria:.

Stay Hydrated

Drinking plenty of water can help prevent urinary tract infections and kidney stones, which can cause hematuria.

Avoid Irritants

Avoiding bladder irritants such as alcohol, caffeine, and spicy food can help prevent bladder inflammation and irritation that can lead to hematuria.

Practice Safe Sex

Practicing safe sex can help prevent sexually transmitted diseases that can cause hematuria.

Conclusion

In conclusion, hematuria can be a symptom of various underlying medical conditions. While it can be a cause for concern, it is not always a serious issue.

By understanding the causes of hematuria and taking the necessary steps to lower your risk, you can help prevent this condition and maintain optimal health.