Bloody urine
Bloody urine, medically known as hematuria, is a condition characterized by the presence of red blood cells in the urine. It can manifest in two forms: visible, known as gross hematuria, where the blood is visible to the naked eye, and microscopic hematuria, where the blood is only detectable under a microscope. This condition can be a symptom of various underlying diseases or medical conditions, ranging from benign to serious.
Causes[edit | edit source]
Bloody urine can be caused by a wide range of conditions affecting the urinary tract or the kidneys. Common causes include:
- Urinary tract infection (UTI): Infections in any part of the urinary tract can lead to blood in the urine.
- Kidney stones: Hard deposits formed in the kidneys that can irritate the bladder or the urethra.
- Bladder cancer: A type of cancer that begins in the cells of the bladder.
- Kidney infection: An infection that usually starts in the bladder and spreads to one or both kidneys.
- Trauma: Injury to the kidneys or other parts of the urinary tract.
- Glomerulonephritis: A group of diseases that cause inflammation and damage to the kidney's filtering units.
- Medications: Certain drugs, including blood thinners and anti-cancer drugs, can cause hematuria as a side effect.
Symptoms[edit | edit source]
While bloody urine itself is a symptom, it may be accompanied by other signs depending on the underlying cause. These can include:
- Pain or burning during urination
- Frequent urination
- Urgency to urinate
- Pain in the side or lower back
- Fever and chills, indicating an infection
Diagnosis[edit | edit source]
Diagnosing the cause of bloody urine involves a series of tests and examinations, including:
- Urinalysis: A test to detect blood, protein, and other substances in the urine.
- Blood tests: To assess kidney function and look for signs of infection or other conditions.
- Imaging tests: Such as ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI, to visualize the urinary tract and kidneys.
- Cystoscopy: A procedure where a thin tube with a camera is inserted into the bladder through the urethra to look for abnormalities.
Treatment[edit | edit source]
Treatment for bloody urine depends on the underlying cause. It may include:
- Antibiotics for infections
- Medication or shock wave therapy to break up kidney stones
- Treatment for any identified kidney disease
- Surgery to remove tumors or blockages
Prevention[edit | edit source]
Preventive measures for bloody urine focus on reducing the risk of developing the conditions that can cause it. These include:
- Drinking plenty of fluids, especially water
- Maintaining good hygiene
- Avoiding irritants, such as tobacco and certain chemicals
- Regular medical check-ups to monitor kidney and urinary tract health
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD