Gain insights into hematuria and explore ways to address blood in urine. Meri Sehat offers expert advice for urinary tract health.

Hematuria

A. JABBAR DENTAL CLINIC KARACHI

Sadia Khan

Overview

Hematuria refers to the presence of blood in the urine. 
&nbsp;

Hematuria is a common urinary abnormality observed worldwide. At least 1 in 5 people who visit a urologist is diagnosed with hematuria, with microscopic hematuria being more common than gross hematuria.<a href="#accordion">[1]</a> Further, asymptomatic hematuria is more common compared to symptomatic hematuria.<a href="#accordion">[2]</a>

According to research, the incidence of hematuria is determined by the primary cause of the disease. E.g., hematuria caused by sickle cell is more frequent amongst African people and Hispanics than Caucasians.<a href="#accordion">[3]</a> 
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There are 2 main types of hematuria:<a href="#accordion">[4]</a>

<ul>
	<li>Gross Hematuria &ndash; Blood is visible to the naked eye, giving the urine a distinct color</li>
	<li>Microscopic Hematuria &ndash; Not visible to the naked eye but can be detected through laboratory analysis of the urine 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

Sign and Symptoms

The primary symptom of hematuria is the noticeable presence of blood in the urine. The discoloration can range from light pink to dark red. 
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Other signs include:

<ul>
	<li>Abdominal pain</li>
	<li>Frequent urination</li>
	<li>Discomfort during urination, especially if there are blood clots in urine</li>
	<li>Urinary urgency</li>
</ul>

These may be accompanied by <a href="https://merisehat.pk/disease/nausea">nausea</a>, vomiting, back or lower abdomen pain, or chills.

Note: DO NOT ignore bloody urine. Early intervention helps identify anatomical or structural problems and avoid any associated complications. 
&nbsp;

Causes

Hematuria can result from a myriad of causes, including:

<ul>
	<li>Infections or inflammation (e.g., UTI, bladder, or kidney infections)</li>
	<li>Kidney or bladder stones</li>
	<li>Injuries or trauma to the kidney or bladder</li>
	<li>Cystitis</li>
	<li>Underlying conditions (e.g., BPH, sickle cell disease, kidney cancer)</li>
</ul>

Sometimes, urine can change color due to other sources, such as certain foods (e.g., beets) and heavy menstrual bleeding. 
&nbsp;

Diagnosis

Accurate diagnosis involves a thorough medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic tests, such as:

<ul>
	<li>Urinalysis &ndash; Microscopic examination of urine to detect the presence of red blood cells</li>
	<li>Imaging Studies &ndash; X-rays, CT scans, MRIs, or abdominal ultrasounds to visualize the urinary tract for abnormalities</li>
	<li>Cystoscopy &ndash; A procedure using a thin tube with a camera to examine the interior of the bladder and urethra</li>
	<li>Blood Test &ndash; Antinuclear antibody test for lupus 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

Treatment

The choice of treatment depends on the underlying cause:

<ul>
	<li>Antibiotics for bacterial infections</li>
	<li>Prescription medication to alleviate symptoms of trauma or treat underlying conditions like an enlarged prostate</li>
	<li>Surgery in cases of structural abnormalities, kidney stones, or tumors 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

Some of the causes of hematuria are serious. Untreated, it can lead to complications such as chronic kidney disease, anemia, or systemic infections. 
&nbsp;

Several factors may increase the risk of developing hematuria, including:

<ul>
	<li>Age; risk increases with age, especially for those over 50</li>
	<li>Gender; more men than women</li>
	<li>Family history of kidney or urinary tract issues</li>
	<li>Genetic conditions, such as Alport syndrome</li>
	<li>Certain medications, such as aspirin or warfarin 
	&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

While not all cases of hematuria can be prevented, adopting a healthy lifestyle, staying hydrated, managing chronic conditions like diabetes and hypertension, and seeking prompt medical attention for urinary issues can reduce the risk.

It is also suggested to avoid smoking, overusing pain medications, and overexposure to radiation. Care should be taken when dealing with occupational risks (e.g., metals or dyes) and strenuous exercises. 
&nbsp;

Key Points

<ul>
	<li>Hematuria is the presence of blood in the urine.</li>
	<li>Types include gross hematuria and microscopic hematuria.</li>
	<li>The causes of hematuria range from infections to injuries and kidney stones.</li>
	<li>The treatment of hematuria depends on the underlying cause and may involve antibiotics, medication, or surgery.</li>
	<li>Risk factors of hematuria include age, gender, and family history.</li>
	<li>While not always preventable, a healthy lifestyle and prompt medical attention can reduce the risk of hematuria.</li>
</ul>