Hematuria

Hematuria is a medical term that refers to the presence of blood in the urine. It can range from microscopic hematuria detectable only under a microscope to gross hematuria, where blood visibly changes the urine’s color to pink, red or brown. Since hematuria can indicate an underlying medical condition such as a urinary tract infection, kidney stones or even bladder cancer, timely diagnosis and treatment from one of our urology specialists is essential for proper care.

Our urologists specialize in advanced care and personalized treatment plans. They can diagnose and treat hematuria and various urinary conditions using the best in leading-edge technology. We’re committed to your well-being and offer compassionate care to improve your quality of life.

• Microscopic hematuria: Microscopic hematuria occurs when blood in the urine is not visible to the naked eye and is typically detected through a urinalysis or other lab tests.
• Gross hematuria: Gross hematuria involves visible blood in the urine, often turning it pink, red or brown. If you are experiencing this you should schedule an appointment, as visible blood in urine may signal kidney stones, infections or other urinary tract conditions that require medical evaluation.

If you observe any abnormal changes in your urine, it is advisable to consult a qualified healthcare provider promptly. The symptoms of hematuria can vary based on the underlying cause but commonly include:

• Blood in urine: The most noticeable sign of hematuria is the presence of blood, which may be visible or detected only through lab testing.
• Changes in urine color: Urine may appear pink, red or brown when blood is present.
• Pain or discomfort: Many individuals report discomfort or pain in the bladder, kidneys or along the urinary tract when hematuria is present.
• Frequent urination: An increased urge to urinate sometimes with little output is another common symptom.
• Fever or chills: When hematuria is caused by an infection, such as a UTI, it may be accompanied by fever or chills.
• Menstruation: During menstruation, some women notice a change in urine color due to the mixing of menstrual blood and urine during excretion. This is typically harmless but can be mistaken for hematuria.

Blood in the urine can be caused for many reasons. Some of the most common causes include:

• Urinary tract infections (UTIs): Infections of the urinary tract, such as cystitis (bladder infection) or pyelonephritis (kidney infection), can lead to hematuria.
• Kidney stones: The passage of kidney stones through the urinary tract can cause irritation and bleeding, leading to hematuria.
• Injury or trauma: Blunt trauma to the kidneys or other parts of the urinary tract can result in hematuria.
• Urinary tract obstruction: Blockages in the urinary tract, such as tumors or enlarged prostate glands, can cause hematuria.
• Medications: Some medications, like certain blood thinners or pain relievers, can lead to hematuria as a side effect.
• Kidney diseases: Conditions like glomerulonephritis or polycystic kidney disease can cause blood to leak into the urine.
• Cancer: Various types of cancer, including bladder cancer, kidney cancer or prostate cancer, can result in hematuria as a symptom.
• Strenuous exercise: In some cases, intense physical activity, such as long-distance running, can lead to hematuria, known as “jogger’s hematuria.”

The initial step in diagnosing hematuria involves taking a detailed medical history. Your healthcare provider will ask about your symptoms, medications, previous medical conditions and any relevant family history. From there, additional options for diagnosis include:

• Physical examination: A physical examination may be performed to check for signs of injury or underlying medical conditions that could be causing hematuria.
• Urinalysis: A urinalysis is a common diagnostic test used to detect the presence of blood in the urine. It can also provide information about the possible cause of hematuria.
• Imaging studies: Depending on the suspected cause, various imaging studies may be ordered. These can include an ultrasound to visualize the kidneys, bladder and other urinary structures, a CT Scan to get detailed images of the urinary tract, including the kidneys and ureters, and cystoscopy (a procedure in which a thin, flexible tube with a camera is inserted into the bladder to examine the urethra and bladder lining).
• Blood tests: Blood tests may be conducted to check kidney function, as well as to identify underlying conditions that could be related to hematuria.

The treatment for hematuria depends on the underlying cause:

• Infections: If hematuria is due to a urinary tract infection, antibiotics are typically prescribed to treat the infection.
• Kidney stones: Treatment for kidney stones may involve pain management, hydration and in some cases, procedures to remove or break up the stones.
• Trauma or injury: Trauma-related hematuria may require rest and supportive care, along with addressing any associated injuries.
• Underlying medical conditions: If a specific medical condition is identified, such as kidney disease or cancer, treatment will be tailored to manage or address that condition. This may involve surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy or other treatments as appropriate.
• Medication adjustments: In some cases, if medication side effects are causing hematuria, a healthcare provider may adjust or change the medication.
• Lifestyle modifications: Individuals with hematuria may be advised to make certain lifestyle changes, such as increasing fluid intake or avoiding strenuous activities in the case of exercise-induced hematuria.

The outlook and prognosis for hematuria depends on its underlying cause and how promptly it is diagnosed and treated. In many cases, hematuria is a symptom of a treatable condition, and with appropriate management, individuals can recover fully. However, in cases where hematuria is due to serious conditions such as advanced cancer, the prognosis may be less favorable. Timely diagnosis and intervention are crucial to improving the prognosis and ensuring the best possible outcome for individuals with hematuria.