Hematuria is a condition where there is blood in the urine. It is not a disease, but a symptom of an underlying condition or disease. Hematuria can indicate a serious medical condition and should be evaluated by a medical professional.

This comprehensive guide will provide useful information about hematuria, including its causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.

What causes hematuria in women?

There are several causes of hematuria in women. Some of them are:.

Urinary tract infection (UTI)

UTIs can cause hematuria, especially if it is accompanied by painful urination, frequent urination, and fever. The urinary tract includes the kidneys, bladder, ureters, and urethra. UTIs are caused by bacteria that enter the urinary tract.

Kidney stones

Kidney stones can cause hematuria when they pass through the urinary tract. This can cause pain in the side and back.

Kidney stones are small, hard mineral deposits that form in the kidneys and can cause severe pain and discomfort as they pass through the urinary tract.

Bladder or kidney infection

Infections in the bladder or kidney can cause hematuria, especially if the infection is accompanied by pain and fever.

Trauma

Trauma to the bladder, kidney, or urethra can cause hematuria. Trauma can be caused by accidents, falls, or other injuries.

Blood disorders

Blood disorders, such as sickle cell anemia and hemophilia, can cause hematuria in women. These conditions cause the blood to clot abnormally, leading to bleeding in the urinary tract.

Cancer

Cancer of the bladder, kidney, or prostate can cause hematuria.

What are the symptoms of hematuria in women?

Hematuria often causes no symptoms. However, women with hematuria may experience the following:.

Blood in the urine, which may be visible to the naked eye
Dark-colored urine
Cloudy urine
Frequent urination
Painful urination
Pain in the side or back
Fever

How is hematuria diagnosed?

The diagnosis of hematuria usually begins with a physical examination and medical history. The doctor may also perform the following tests:.

Urinalysis

Urinalysis is a test that examines the urine for abnormalities, including the presence of blood.

Blood tests

Blood tests can help determine if the hematuria is caused by an infection, clotting disorder, or other medical condition.

Imaging tests

Imaging tests, such as ultrasound, CT scan, MRI, or X-ray, can help identify the cause of hematuria, such as kidney stones or cancer.

How is hematuria treated?

Treatment for hematuria depends on the underlying cause of the condition. Some of the treatment options include:.

Antibiotics

If the hematuria is caused by an infection, antibiotics may be prescribed to treat the infection.

Kidney stone treatment

Small kidney stones can pass through the urinary tract without treatment. However, larger kidney stones may require treatment, such as using sound waves to break up the stones or surgery to remove them.

Chemotherapy or radiation therapy

If the hematuria is caused by cancer, chemotherapy or radiation therapy may be necessary to treat the cancer and stop the bleeding.

Surgery

In some cases, surgery may be needed to treat the underlying cause of hematuria, such as removing a tumor or repairing bladder or kidney damage.

How can hematuria be prevented?

Preventing hematuria involves preventing the underlying condition or disease that causes the condition. Here are some tips for preventing hematuria:.

Drink plenty of water
Practice good hygiene to prevent UTIs
Avoid holding urine for long periods
Wipe front to back after using the toilet
Choose a healthy diet low in sodium and rich in whole grains, vegetables, and fruits
Avoid smoking cigarettes
Exercise regularly

Conclusion

Women with hematuria may experience visible blood in the urine, dark-colored or cloudy urine, painful or frequent urination, pain in the side or back, and fever. The diagnosis of hematuria usually involves a physical examination and medical history, urinalysis, blood tests, and imaging tests.

Treatment for hematuria depends on the underlying cause of the condition and may include antibiotics, kidney stone treatment, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or surgery. Preventing hematuria involves preventing the underlying condition or disease by practicing good hygiene, choosing a healthy diet, exercise regularly, and avoiding smoking cigarettes.