Blood in Urine (Hematuria)
Hematuria (Blood in Urine)
What is Hematuria?
Hematuria is the presence of blood in the urine. The urine may appear pink, red, or cola-colored (visible hematuria) or blood may be detected only on a urine test (microscopic hematuria).
Although blood in the urine can sometimes occur due to a minor cause, it should never be ignored, as it may be an early sign of an underlying urological condition that requires prompt evaluation.
Types of Hematuria
Gross (Visible) Hematuria
Blood is visible to the naked eye, causing the urine to appear pink, red, or brown.
Microscopic Hematuria
Blood is detected only under a microscope or on a urine test and may not cause any visible change in urine color.
Common Causes of Hematuria
Blood in the urine can occur due to several conditions, including:
- Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
- Kidney stones
- Enlarged prostate (BPH)
- Bladder infections
- Vigorous exercise
- Certain medications, such as blood thinners
- Kidney disease
- Urethral stricture
- Trauma to the urinary tract
Importantly, hematuria can also be a sign of:
- Bladder cancer
- Kidney cancer
- Prostate cancer (less commonly)
Associated Symptoms
Depending on the underlying cause, hematuria may be accompanied by:
- Burning during urination
- Frequent urination
- Difficulty passing urine
- Flank or back pain
- Passage of blood clots in urine
- Fever or chills
- Lower abdominal pain
- Unexplained weight loss
Why Should Blood in the Urine Be Evaluated?
Even a single episode of blood in the urine warrants medical evaluation.
Painless blood in the urine, particularly in adults and smokers, should always be investigated to rule out cancers of the urinary tract.
Diagnosis
A comprehensive evaluation may include:
- Detailed medical history and physical examination
- Urine analysis
- Urine culture
- Urine cytology in selected patients
- Blood tests
- Ultrasound of the kidneys and bladder
- CT Urography or CT scan
- Cystoscopy (camera examination of the bladder)
Cystoscopy – An Important Investigation
Cystoscopy allows direct examination of the urethra and bladder using a small camera and is often essential in evaluating unexplained or recurrent hematuria.
Treatment
Treatment depends entirely on the underlying cause.
Management may include:
- Antibiotics for infections
- Treatment of kidney stones
- Management of enlarged prostate
- Treatment of urethral strictures
- Surgical treatment of tumors or cancers when detected
- Further evaluation and management of kidney diseases
When Should You Seek Immediate Medical Attention?
You should consult a urologist if:
- You notice blood in your urine, even once
- You pass blood clots in the urine
- Blood in the urine is associated with pain or fever
- You have recurrent episodes of hematuria
- You are over 40 years of age or have a history of smoking
Comprehensive Hematuria Evaluation
Dr. Saurabh Thakkar provides comprehensive evaluation of blood in the urine, with a focus on identifying the underlying cause and excluding serious conditions such as bladder and kidney cancer.
Schedule a consultation if you have noticed blood in your urine or have been diagnosed with microscopic hematuria.