Hematuria is a medical condition where a person experiences blood in their urine. This is a concerning symptom and requires immediate medical attention.

There are many causes of hematuria and understanding them is essential to identify the right treatment.

Causes of Hematuria

The causes of hematuria can be categorized as either gross or microscopic. Gross hematuria can be seen with the naked eye, while microscopic hematuria requires lab tests to detect the presence of blood. Here are some of the common causes of hematuria:.

Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)

UTIs are the most common cause of hematuria in females. UTIs occur when bacteria enter the urinary tract, resulting in an infection. UTIs cause frequent urination, pain during urination, and sometimes, hematuria.

Kidney Stones

Kidney stones can also cause hematuria. Kidney stones are mineral deposits that form in the kidneys and can cause blockages in the urinary tract. Symptoms include pain during urination, lower abdominal pain, and hematuria.

Bladder and Kidney Cancer

Hematuria can also be a symptom of bladder or kidney cancer. There might be other symptoms such as pain in the lower back or groin, but hematuria must not be ignored.

Enlarged Prostate

In men, an enlarged prostate can cause hematuria due to blockages in the urinary tract. Other symptoms of an enlarged prostate include urinary urgency, difficulty urinating, and pain during urination.

Medications

Some medications can cause hematuria, such as blood thinners (anticoagulants) and aspirin. These medications increase the risk of bleeding and can lead to hematuria.

Strenuous Exercise

Strenuous exercise can sometimes cause hematuria due to the exertion put on the muscles and organs. However, if hematuria is consistently observed during or after exercising, it is essential to see a doctor.

Diagnosis of Hematuria

Diagnosing the underlying cause of hematuria requires a series of tests, including urine tests, blood tests, and imaging tests. Doctors typically start with a urine analysis to detect the presence of blood cells in the urine.

Further tests may be ordered, including a CT scan or an ultrasound to examine the urinary tract’s organs.

Treatment of Hematuria

The treatment for hematuria varies depending on the underlying cause. Here are some of the common treatments:.

Antibiotics for UTIs

If UTIs are the cause of hematuria, antibiotics are prescribed to treat the infection. The treatment typically lasts between three and seven days.

Surgery for Kidney Stones

If kidney stones are the cause of hematuria, surgery may be required to remove the stones. For smaller stones, doctors may recommend medication to help the stones pass through the urinary tract.

Chemotherapy for Cancer

If bladder or kidney cancer is causing hematuria, chemotherapy is often used to shrink or eliminate cancerous growths. In severe cases, surgery might also be necessary.

Surgical Procedure for Enlarged Prostate

For men suffering from an enlarged prostate, a surgical procedure may be required to alleviate urinary tract blockages. However, in less severe cases, medication can improve the function of the prostate and reduce urinary tract symptoms.

Conclusion

Hematuria is a concerning symptom that should not be ignored. Timely diagnosis and treatment are crucial to identify the underlying cause of hematuria and prevent further complications.

If you observe blood in your urine, make an appointment with your doctor immediately.