Hematuria Symptoms: What Every Patient Needs to Know

Types of Hematuria

Hematuria is the presence of blood in the urine. Identifying its type—visible or microscopic—helps in determining the source and urgency of care.

Primary Types:

• Gross Hematuria: Visible blood in the urine.
• Microscopic Hematuria: Blood not visible to the eye but detected in a urine test.

Secondary Types:

• Transient Hematuria: Temporary, often caused by exercise or infection.
• Persistent Hematuria: Ongoing, may indicate chronic or serious conditions.

Hematuria Common Causes

There are several potential causes of hematuria, including:

• Kidney or bladder cancer
• Infection of the bladder, kidney, prostate, or urethra
• Inflammation of the bladder, urethra, prostate, or kidney (glomerulonephritis)
• Injury to the bladder or kidney
• Kidney or bladder stones
• Kidney disease following strep throat (post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis), a common cause in children
• Kidney failure
• Polycystic kidney disease
• Recent urinary tract procedures such as catheterization, circumcision, surgery, or kidney biopsy
• Bleeding disorders (e.g., hemophilia)
• Blood clot in the kidneys
• Blood-thinning medications (e.g., aspirin or warfarin)
• Sickle cell disease
• Thrombocytopenia (low platelet count)
• Certain medications, beets, or other foods can also cause the urine to turn red.

Hematuria Related Symptoms

Hematuria may occur alone or alongside other symptoms that indicate specific health concerns:

• Pain during urination (dysuria)
• Lower back or side pain
• Increased frequency or urgency to urinate
• Fever and chills

When to See a Doctor?

Medical attention is advised if hematuria is persistent or accompanied by alarming symptoms:

• Blood clots in urine
• Inability to urinate
• Severe flank or abdominal pain
• High fever with chills
• Recurrent hematuria
• Symptoms lasting more than a few days
• Family history of kidney disease or cancer

Hematuria Diagnosis & Tests

A range of diagnostic tools helps determine the root cause of hematuria:

Physical Exams:

• Abdominal or pelvic examination

Lab Tests:

• Urinalysis, urine culture, kidney function tests

Imaging Tests:

• Ultrasound, CT scan, MRI of the kidneys and bladder

Specialized Diagnostics:

• Cystoscopy (to view the bladder)
• Kidney biopsy (if glomerular disease is suspected)

Hematuria Treatment & Management

Treatment focuses on addressing the underlying cause and relieving associated symptoms:

Medications:

• Antibiotics (for UTIs), alpha-blockers (for BPH), anti-inflammatory drugs

Therapies:

• Shockwave therapy (for stones), surgical procedures (if tumors or obstructions are found)

Prevention Tips:

• Stay hydrated, maintain urinary hygiene, and avoid smoking.

Home Remedies:

• Cranberry juice, warm compresses for pain, and proper rest.

Lifestyle Changes:

• Limit salt intake, manage blood pressure, and avoid excessive physical strain.

Hematuria is a symptom that should never be ignored, as it may indicate anything from minor infections to serious underlying conditions. Timely diagnosis and appropriate medical attention are essential for effective treatment and long-term health.