Blood in the urine, hematuria: what is this, causes, symptoms, diagnostics, treatment, prevention

Urine – bloody; Hematuria; Blood in the urine

What is blood in urine?

Blood in the urine, also known as hematuria, This State, in which a person's urine is red, pink or brown. This can happen for a variety of reasons and usually has no serious cause.. The condition can range from mild to fatal, and should be carefully monitored.

Causes of blood in the urine

Blood in the urine is usually caused by a medical problem in the urinary tract or an underlying medical condition.. Some of the most common reasons include:

• Urinary tract infection: infection of any part of the urinary tract, e.g. bladder, urethra, ureters or kidneys, can cause blood in the urine.
• Stones in the kidneys. small stones, usually composed of calcium and other minerals, which are produced in the kidneys, can cause blood in the urine, if they enter the ureters on their way to the bladder.
• Enlarged prostate. An enlarged prostate in men can cause blood in the urine, since an enlarged prostate can put pressure on the urethra and lead to bleeding.
• Kidney disease: any disease, affecting the kidneys, eg, chronic kidney disease, can cause blood in the urine.
• Cancer. Kidney cancer, bladder or other areas of the urinary tract can lead to blood in the urine.
• Medicines: preparations, blood thinners, such as aspirin and warfarin, can cause blood in the urine, if taken too often.
• Trauma: such events, like falling, car accidents and sports injuries, can cause blood in the urine.
• Exercises: prolonged intense exercise can lead to the release of red blood cells into the urine, although this is not usually a concern.

Symptoms of blood in the urine

The main sign of blood in the urine is the presence of red, pink or brown urine. Other symptoms may be present depending on the underlying cause., such as:

• Pain in the side or lower back
• Pain or burning during urination
• Frequent urination
• Blood clots in the urine
• Heat
• Nausea or vomiting

When to contact a healthcare professional

In most cases, blood in the urine is not a cause for concern.. Nonetheless, if blood appears in the urine several times, if the blood is accompanied by other symptoms, such as fever, pain or fatigue, or if the blood is darker in color, than usual, consult a physician immediately.

Diagnosis of blood in the urine

Blood in the urine can be diagnosed with a physical examination, urinalysis and imaging tests, such as ultrasound or X-ray. Biopsy may be required if cancer is suspected.

Treatment of blood in the urine

Treatment for blood in urine depends on the underlying cause. If the cause is a urinary tract infection, antibiotics may be prescribed. If the cause is kidney stones, surgery may be required to remove them. If cancer is present, the treatment will include surgery, radiation or chemotherapy.

Home treatment for blood in urine

If the cause is a urinary tract infection, Drinking plenty of water may help, avoiding caffeine and alcohol and taking over-the-counter pain relievers. If the cause is a kidney stone, then drinking plenty of water can help wash the stone. Other home treatments may include avoiding strenuous activity and taking over-the-counter medications to reduce pain and discomfort..

Prevention of blood in the urine

The best way to prevent blood in your urine is to drink plenty of fluids and lead a healthy lifestyle.. It is also important to practice safe sex and avoid any contact with anyone., who has a urinary tract infection.

Besides, some medicines, such as painkillers, Ibuprofen, aspirin and warfarin, should be taken with caution, as they may increase the risk of blood in the urine.

Used sources and literature

Boorjian SA, Raman JD, Barocas YES. Evaluation and management of hematuria. In: Party AW, Domochowski RR, Kavousi LR, Peters CA, eds. Campbell-Walsh-Wein Urology. 12th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2021:chap 16.

Brown DD, Reidy KJ. Approach to the child with hematuria. Pediatr Clin North Am. 2019;66(1):15-30. PMID: 30454740 pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30454740/.

Elsamra SE. Evaluation of the urologic patient: history and physical examination. In: Party AW, Domochowski RR, Kavousi LR, Peters CA, eds. Campbell-Walsh-Wein Urology. 12th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2021:chap 1.

Landry DW, Bazari H. Approach to the patient with renal disease. In: Goldman L, Schafer AI, eds. Goldman-Cecil Medicine. 26th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2020:chap 106.