Hematuria is the term that is used when blood is in urine. Basically, this is when the urinary tract is not keeping the blood cells out of urine. There are two types of hematuria, gross hematuria and microscopic hematuria. Gross hematuria is when there are enough red blood cells that the urine changes color. If the blood does not change color, that is microscopic hematuria. While individuals might notice gross hematuria, micro hematuria is only identifiable through urine samples. Most often, this is discovered during a routine checkup.
Causes
In many cases, the cause of hematuria is not something that can be identified. The main reason for this is because hematuria tends to be a symptom. Hematuria can be caused by several different factors related to the urinary tract. These include urinary tract infections, kidney stones, tumors, or trauma. Some drugs or intense exercise can lead to hematuria. While hematuria can affect anyone, there are some factors that make having one more likely. Older men, people with recent urinary tract infections, people with a family history of kidney disease, people taking medications like aspirin and penicillin, and long-distance runners are more likely to develop hematuria. In addition, high calcium concentrations in urine can lead to hematuria.
Signs and Symptoms
Other than blood in your urine, other symptoms can be present. Since hematuria is itself a symptom of other conditions, these symptoms can depend on the condition causing it. These can include swelling, nausea, back or side pain, fever, pain, or abnormal bleeding from a variety of places in the body. Other symptoms can include difficult urination. Difficulties can take the form of reduced, urgent, or painful urination. On occasion, the blood in the bladder can clot. This then prevents urine from flowing and can be extremely painful. These symptoms can help you know if you have microscopic hematuria.
Treatment
Several different tests can be done to see if you have hematuria. A urine culture will help your health care professional learn if you have an infection. In other cases, a CT scan, ultrasound, blood test, or cystoscopy can be the best way for your health care professional to know what is causing the blood. The treatment of hematuria depends on the cause of the condition. If an infection is the cause, your healthcare professional will prescribe antibiotics to clear up the infection.
Should you notice blood in your urine, or experience any of the symptoms of hematuria, contact us today to schedule an appointment with the best urologist in New York City.