Haematuria, or blood in the urine, can be a concerning symptom that may indicate a serious underlying condition. It is important to understand the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options for haematuria to effectively manage your health.
This guide will help you navigate this symptom and know when to see a doctor.
Haematuria is the presence of red blood cells in the urine. There are two types of haematuria:
Visible blood in the urine that changes its colour to pink, red, or brown. It can be seen with the naked eye.
Blood in the urine that is not visible to the naked eye but can be detected under a microscope or with a urine test.
Haematuria can be caused by a wide range of conditions, from benign to serious. Here are some of the most common causes:
In addition to the presence of blood in the urine, other symptoms may accompany haematuria, depending on the underlying cause:
Consult a doctor if you notice pink, red, or brown urine, have persistent microscopic haematuria, experience accompanying symptoms, have a history of urinary tract issues, have a family history of kidney disease or cancer, or if post-exercise haematuria does not resolve with rest.
Diagnosing the cause of haematuria involves several steps, including medical history, physical examination, and various tests:
The doctor will ask about your symptoms, medical history, and family history of kidney issues. They will also conduct a physical exam to check for any abnormalities in the abdomen and pelvic area.
Urinalysis checks for protein, bacteria, and abnormalities in urine. Urine culture identifies bacteria causing haematuria. Urine cytology detects cancer cells in urine samples.
CBC is done to check for infection or anaemia, while kidney function tests look at creatinine and blood urea nitrogen levels to evaluate kidney health.
Ultrasound is used to check for kidney stones, tumours, or abnormalities, CT scans provide detailed images of the urinary tract, and MRI is used for detailed soft tissue imaging.
A procedure where a thin, flexible tube with a camera (cystoscope) is inserted into the bladder through the urethra to examine the bladder and urethra for abnormalities.
In certain cases, a kidney biopsy may be performed to obtain a small sample of kidney tissue for microscopic examination to diagnose kidney disease.
The treatment of haematuria depends on its underlying reason. Here are some common treatment approaches based on different causes:
If blood in urine is caused due to UTI, antibiotics are prescribed to eliminate the bacterial infection. Completing the full course of antibiotics is crucial to prevent recurrence. Drinking plenty of fluids helps flush out bacteria from the urinary tract.
Severe kidney infections may require intravenous antibiotics and hospitalization. Ensure the infection is fully resolved with follow-up urine tests.
In such cases, medications are given to manage pain and discomfort. Increased fluid intake Helps in passing small stones naturally.
For larger stones, procedures like shock wave lithotripsy, ureteroscopy, or percutaneous nephrolithotomy may be required.
Alpha-blockers or 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors to reduce prostate size and improve urine flow. Transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) or other surgical procedures are suggested for severe cases.
Depending on the type of kidney disease, medications are used to control blood pressure, reduce proteinuria, or manage symptoms. Dietary modifications and managing underlying conditions like diabetes or hypertension can prove to be effective.
If the underlying reason is cancer, a range of treatment options may be used such as:
While not all cases of haematuria can be prevented, certain lifestyle changes can reduce the risk of conditions that cause blood in the urine:
Haematuria or blood in the urine, should never be ignored as it can indicate serious conditions such as kidney disease or cancer. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent complications. Regular check-ups and a healthy lifestyle can help maintain urinary tract health. If you notice blood in your urine, consult a healthcare provider for timely care.
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