Blood in Urine (Hematuria)

Blood in urine, also known as hematuria, is a medical condition characterized by the presence of blood in the urine. It can be a symptom of various underlying conditions, ranging from mild to severe.

Types of Hematuria

• Gross Hematuria: Visible blood in the urine, which can appear as pink, red, or brown.
• Microscopic Hematuria: Blood in the urine that is only visible under a microscope.

Causes of Hematuria

• Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): Bacterial infections of the kidneys, bladder, or urethra can cause hematuria.
• Kidney Stones: Small, hard mineral deposits that can cause bleeding in the urinary tract.
• Bladder Cancer: A type of cancer that can cause blood in the urine.
• Kidney Disease: Conditions such as glomerulonephritis or nephrotic syndrome can cause hematuria.
• Prostate Problems: Enlarged prostate, prostatitis, or prostate cancer can cause blood in the urine.
• Bladder Injuries: Trauma to the bladder or urethra can cause bleeding.
• Medications: Certain medications, such as blood thinners or antibiotics, can increase the risk of hematuria.
• Medical Conditions: Conditions such as sickle cell disease, lupus, or rheumatoid arthritis can cause hematuria.

Symptoms of Hematuria

• Visible Blood in Urine: The most common symptom of hematuria.
• Painful Urination: Discomfort or burning sensation while urinating.
• Frequent Urination: Needing to urinate more often than usual.
• Urgent Urination: Sudden, intense need to urinate.
• Abdominal Pain: Pain or discomfort in the abdominal area.

Diagnosis of Hematuria

• Urinalysis: A test to check for blood, protein, and other abnormalities in the urine.
• Imaging Tests: CT scans, MRI scans, or ultrasound tests to visualize the urinary tract.
• Cystoscopy: A procedure to visually examine the bladder and urethra.
• Blood Tests: To check for underlying medical conditions or infections.

Treatment of Hematuria

• Antibiotics: To treat urinary tract infections.
• Pain Relief Medications: To manage pain and discomfort.
• Surgery: To remove kidney stones, tumors, or other blockages.
• Medications: To manage underlying medical conditions, such as high blood pressure or diabetes.

Complications of Hematuria

• Kidney Damage: Untreated hematuria can lead to kidney damage or failure.
• Infections: Untreated UTIs can lead to more severe infections, such as sepsis.
• Cancer: Untreated bladder cancer can spread to other parts of the body.