Haematuria

Haematuria, 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 Haematuria

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

Causes of Haematuria

Haematuria can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

• Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): Bacterial infections that can cause inflammation and bleeding in the urinary tract.
• Kidney Stones: Small, hard mineral deposits that can cause bleeding and pain in the kidneys or ureters.
• Bladder Cancer: A type of cancer that can cause bleeding in the bladder.
• Kidney Disease: Conditions such as glomerulonephritis, nephrotic syndrome, and polycystic kidney disease can cause haematuria.
• Prostate Problems: Enlarged prostate, prostatitis, or prostate cancer can cause bleeding in the urinary tract.
• Trauma: Injury to the kidneys, ureters, or bladder can cause haematuria.
• Medications: Certain medications, such as blood thinners and some antibiotics, can increase the risk of bleeding in the urinary tract.

Symptoms of Haematuria

In addition to visible or microscopic blood in the urine, other symptoms may include:

• 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 abdomen, back, or sides.

Diagnosis of Haematuria

Diagnosing haematuria typically involves:

• Physical Examination: A thorough physical examination to check for signs of infection, injury, or other underlying conditions.
• Urinalysis: A urine test to detect the presence of blood, protein, and other abnormalities.
• Imaging Tests: X-rays, CT scans, or ultrasound tests to visualize the kidneys, ureters, and bladder.
• Cystoscopy: A procedure that uses a flexible tube with a camera to visually examine the inside of the bladder and urethra.

Treatment of Haematuria

Treatment for haematuria depends on the underlying cause and may include:

• Antibiotics: To treat urinary tract infections or other bacterial infections.
• Pain Relief Medications: To manage pain and discomfort.
• Surgery: To remove kidney stones, repair injuries, or treat cancer.
• Medications: To manage underlying conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, or prostate problems.

Complications of Haematuria

If left untreated, haematuria can lead to complications such as:

• Kidney Damage: Permanent damage to the kidneys or ureters.
• Infection: Spread of infection to other parts of the body.
• Anemia: Low red blood cell count due to chronic bleeding.
• Chronic Kidney Disease: Long-term damage to the kidneys, which can lead to kidney failure.

Prevention of Haematuria

To reduce the risk of haematuria:

• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to help flush out bacteria and other substances that can cause infection.
• Urinate When Needed: Avoid holding urine for long periods, as this can increase the risk of infection.
• Practice Good Hygiene: Wipe from front to back after using the bathroom to prevent bacteria from entering the urinary tract.
• Avoid Certain Medications: If possible, avoid taking medications that can increase the risk of bleeding in the urinary tract.