Hematuria
Definition and Overview
Hematuria is the medical term for the presence of blood, specifically red blood cells, in the urine. It is a symptom rather than a disease and can indicate various underlying disorders. Hematuria can be categorized into two types: microscopic and gross.
Types of Hematuria
Microscopic hematuria is when blood in the urine is not visible to the naked eye and is only detected through a urinalysis. Gross hematuria, on the other hand, is when the urine appears red or brown due to the presence of blood, and can be noticed without a microscope.
Causes
Hematuria can be caused by a variety of conditions, including urinary tract infections, kidney stones, and more serious conditions such as bladder or kidney cancer. It can also be a side effect of certain medications, or a symptom of a bleeding disorder.
Urinary Tract Infections
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) occur when bacteria enter the urinary tract, causing symptoms such as a strong urge to urinate, pain or burning during urination, and cloudy, strong-smelling urine. Hematuria can occur if the infection causes the lining of the bladder or urethra to become inflamed and bleed.
Kidney Stones
Kidney stones are hard deposits of minerals and salts that form in the kidneys. They can cause severe pain and hematuria when they move through the urinary tract.
Medications
Certain medications, such as aspirin, penicillin, and heparin, can cause hematuria. This is usually a side effect and not a sign of a more serious condition.
Bleeding Disorders
Bleeding disorders, such as hemophilia and von Willebrand disease, can cause hematuria. These disorders affect the body's ability to clot blood, leading to excessive bleeding.
Cancer
In some cases, hematuria can be a sign of kidney or bladder cancer. This is more common in older adults and those with risk factors for these types of cancer.
Diagnosis
Diagnosing the cause of hematuria involves a series of tests, including a physical examination, urinalysis, and imaging tests. In some cases, a cystoscopy or a biopsy may be necessary.
Physical Examination
A physical examination can help determine the cause of hematuria. The doctor may ask about symptoms, medical history, and any medications being taken.
Urinalysis
A urinalysis is a test that examines the content of the urine. It can detect red and white blood cells, bacteria, and substances such as proteins and sugars.
Imaging Tests
Imaging tests, such as ultrasounds, CT scans, and MRI scans, can provide a detailed view of the urinary tract and help identify any abnormalities.
Cystoscopy
A cystoscopy involves inserting a thin tube with a camera into the bladder through the urethra. This allows the doctor to examine the bladder and urethra for any abnormalities.
Biopsy
In some cases, a biopsy may be necessary. This involves taking a small sample of tissue for examination under a microscope.
Treatment
Treatment for hematuria depends on the underlying cause. This may involve antibiotics for a UTI, medication or surgery for kidney stones, or treatment for any underlying bleeding disorders or cancers.
Prevention
While not all causes of hematuria can be prevented, maintaining a healthy lifestyle can reduce the risk. This includes staying hydrated, avoiding smoking, and maintaining a healthy weight.