Hematuria is a medical condition that refers to the presence of blood in urine. It may or may not be visible to the naked eye, but it can be a sign of an underlying medical condition.

In this article, we will discuss the various causes of hematuria and provide a better understanding of this condition.

1. Urinary Tract Infections

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are one of the most common causes of hematuria. When bacteria enter the urinary tract, they can cause infection and inflammation, leading to bleeding.

Symptoms of UTIs include frequent urination, pain or burning sensation during urination, and cloudy or foul-smelling urine.

2. Kidney Stones

Kidney stones are solid masses formed in the kidneys due to the accumulation of minerals and salts. When these stones pass through the urinary tract, they can cause injury and lead to blood in urine.

The pain associated with kidney stones is usually severe and localized in the lower back or abdomen.

3. Bladder or Kidney Infections

Infections in the bladder or kidneys, such as cystitis or pyelonephritis, can cause hematuria. These infections can be bacterial or viral and often result in inflammation and bleeding in the urinary tract.

Other symptoms include frequent urination, pain in the lower abdomen or back, and fever.

4. Bladder or Kidney Injuries

Trauma or injury to the bladder or kidneys can lead to hematuria. This can occur due to accidents, sports injuries, or other physical trauma. In some cases, blood in urine may be the only noticeable symptom of an underlying injury.

5. Urinary Tract Obstructions

Blockages or obstructions in the urinary tract, such as urinary stones, tumors, or strictures, can cause hematuria. These obstructions can disrupt the normal flow of urine and lead to bleeding.

Symptoms may vary depending on the location and severity of the obstruction.

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6. Kidney Disease

Various kidney diseases, including glomerulonephritis and polycystic kidney disease, can cause hematuria. These conditions affect the normal functioning of the kidneys and can result in blood in urine.

Other symptoms may include high blood pressure, proteinuria (presence of excess protein in urine), and swelling in the legs or face.

7. Medications

Some medications, such as certain antibiotics, anticoagulants, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), can cause hematuria as a side effect.

If you suspect that your medication is causing blood in your urine, it is important to consult your healthcare provider for further evaluation.

8. Inherited Disorders

There are certain inherited disorders, such as sickle cell anemia and Alport syndrome, which can lead to hematuria. These conditions affect the structure or function of the kidneys, making them more prone to bleeding.

Genetic testing can help diagnose these disorders.

9. Cancer

In some cases, hematuria can be a symptom of urinary tract or kidney cancer. Tumors in these organs can cause bleeding, which may be visible in urine.

It is important to seek medical evaluation if you experience persistent hematuria or other concerning symptoms.

10. Other Causes

Other less common causes of hematuria include blood clotting disorders, strenuous exercise, certain kidney or bladder procedures, and systemic conditions like lupus or vasculitis.

These factors can contribute to the presence of blood in urine, and a thorough evaluation is necessary to determine the underlying cause.