Haematuria (Blood in the Urine)
What is Haematuria?
Hematuria refers to the presence of blood in the urine. It can be visible to the naked eye (gross haematuria) or only detected under a microscope (microscopic haematuria). Haematuria can be caused by various factors and may indicate an underlying medical condition. While haematuria can be alarming, it’s important to understand its potential causes and seek appropriate medical attention if needed.
Common Causes of Hematuria:
- Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): Infections in the urinary tract, such as in the bladder or kidneys, can cause haematuria. Other symptoms of UTIs include pain or burning during urination, frequent urination, and lower abdominal discomfort.
- Kidney Stones: Small, hard deposits of minerals and salts can form in the kidneys and may lead to haematuria. Kidney stones can cause severe pain in the lower back or side.
- Bladder or Kidney Infections: Infections in the bladder (cystitis) or kidneys (pyelonephritis) can result in haematuria. These infections are often accompanied by pain, fever, and discomfort.
- Enlarged Prostate: In men, an enlarged prostate gland (benign prostatic hyperplasia) can cause haematuria along with symptoms like difficulty urinating and frequent nighttime urination.
- Certain Medications: Some medications, like certain blood thinners, can lead to blood in the urine. Consult your healthcare provider if you suspect a medication might be causing your haematuria.
- Vigorous Exercise: Intense physical activity can sometimes lead to haematuria. This is usually temporary and resolves on its own.
- Kidney Disease: Various kidney conditions, such as glomerulonephritis or polycystic kidney disease, can result in haematuria. These conditions often have additional symptoms like swelling, fatigue, and changes in urine output.
- Trauma: Injury to the urinary tract due to accidents, sports injuries, or other trauma can cause blood in the urine.
- Cancers: Haematuria can be a symptom of bladder, kidney, or prostate cancer. If you experience persistent haematuria, especially if you’re at risk for these types of cancers, consult a healthcare professional.
When to Seek Medical Attention:
If you notice blood in your urine, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider, especially if:
- The haematuria persists for more than a day.
- You experience pain, discomfort, fever, or other unusual symptoms.
- You have a history of urinary tract issues or conditions that increase your risk of kidney problems.
- You’re taking medications that might contribute to haematuria.
Diagnosis and Treatment:
Your healthcare provider will likely conduct a thorough medical history and physical examination. Depending on the suspected cause, they might recommend further tests such as:
- urine analysis
- blood tests
- imaging (like ultrasound or CT scan)
- cystoscopy (insertion of a thin tube with a camera into the bladder)
Treatment will depend on the underlying cause. For instance, infections might require antibiotics, kidney stones might necessitate pain management and possible removal, and conditions like cancer might involve more specialized treatments.
Hematuria can be a sign of various underlying issues, ranging from minor to serious. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are essential for managing these conditions effectively. If you experience blood in your urine, don’t hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional to determine the cause and receive the appropriate care.