Hematuria (Blood in Urine)
Hematuria is the presence of blood in the urine, which can be visible to the naked eye (gross hematuria) or detected through a microscope (microscopic hematuria). It can result from various causes, including infections, kidney stones, or more serious conditions like tumors or kidney disease. While it may not always indicate a serious problem, it is important to seek medical evaluation to identify the underlying cause. Treatment depends on addressing the specific cause of hematuria. While the sight of blood in the urine can be alarming, hematuria can occur due to a wide variety of underlying causes, ranging from benign to serious conditions.
Causes of Hematuria
- Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): Bacterial infections in the bladder or urethra can lead to hematuria, often accompanied by pain during urination.
- Kidney Stones (Nephrolithiasis): Stones formed in the kidneys can scratch the urinary tract and cause bleeding, leading to blood in the urine.
- Trauma or Injury: Any injury to the kidneys, bladder, or urethra from an accident or physical trauma can cause hematuria.
- Bladder or Kidney Infections (Pyelonephritis): Infections in the kidneys or bladder can result in blood in the urine along with other symptoms like fever and pain.
- Glomerulonephritis: Inflammation of the glomeruli in the kidneys can cause blood to leak into the urine, often seen in conditions like lupus or post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis.
Symptoms of Hematuria
- Visible Blood in Urine (Gross Hematuria): Pink, red, or brown urine is the most noticeable symptom, often indicating significant bleeding in the urinary tract.
- Frequent Urination: Increased urge to urinate, especially if the hematuria is associated with a UTI or prostate issues.
- Painful Urination (Dysuria): A burning or stinging sensation while urinating, which may occur with infections or urinary tract stones.
- Lower Abdominal or Back Pain: Pain in the lower abdomen, side, or back can be a symptom, especially if caused by kidney stones, infections, or bladder issues.
- Cloudy or Foul-Smelling Urine: Urine may appear cloudy or have an unpleasant odor, particularly if an infection is present.
