Summary about Disease
Blood in the urine, also known as hematuria, is the presence of red blood cells in the urine. The urine may appear pink, red, or cola-colored, or the blood may be visible only under a microscope (microscopic hematuria). It can be a sign of various underlying conditions, ranging from relatively harmless to potentially serious.
Symptoms
Visible blood in the urine (gross hematuria): Urine appears pink, red, or cola-colored.
Microscopic hematuria: Blood is only visible under a microscope, and there may be no visible change in urine color.
Painful urination (dysuria) - sometimes, depending on the cause.
Frequent urination - sometimes, depending on the cause.
Urgency to urinate - sometimes, depending on the cause.
Abdominal or flank pain - sometimes, depending on the cause (e.g., kidney stones).
Blood clots in the urine.
Causes
Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): Bacterial infections of the bladder or kidneys.
Kidney Infections (Pyelonephritis): Infections of the kidneys.
Kidney or Bladder Stones: Minerals crystallizing in the urinary tract.
Enlarged Prostate (Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia - BPH): Common in older men.
Glomerulonephritis: Inflammation of the kidney's filtering units.
Medications: Some medications, such as blood thinners (e.g., aspirin, warfarin) and certain antibiotics, can cause hematuria.
Strenuous Exercise: Rarely, intense exercise can lead to hematuria.
Trauma: Injury to the kidneys or urinary tract.
Cancer: Kidney, bladder, or prostate cancer.
Inherited Diseases: Such as sickle cell anemia or Alport syndrome.
Kidney Disease: Polycystic kidney disease
Medicine Used
The medications used depend entirely on the underlying cause of the hematuria.
UTIs: Antibiotics (e.g., trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole, ciprofloxacin, nitrofurantoin).
Kidney Infections: Stronger antibiotics, often administered intravenously in severe cases.
Kidney Stones: Pain relievers (e.g., ibuprofen, opioids), alpha-blockers to help pass the stone, or procedures to break up or remove the stone.
Enlarged Prostate: Alpha-blockers (e.g., tamsulosin), 5-alpha reductase inhibitors (e.g., finasteride), or surgery.
Glomerulonephritis: Corticosteroids, immunosuppressants, or medications to control blood pressure.
Cancer: Chemotherapy, radiation therapy, surgery, immunotherapy.
Blood Thinners: Dosage adjustment by a doctor.
For specific inherited diseases: Specific treatments for the condition.
Is Communicable
Hematuria itself is not communicable. However, if the hematuria is caused by an infectious agent (like a UTI), then the underlying infection might be communicable, but only through specific routes. For example, UTIs are not generally considered communicable through casual contact.
Precautions
Hydration: Drink plenty of fluids to help flush the urinary system.
Proper Hygiene: Practice good hygiene to prevent UTIs (e.g., wiping front to back after using the toilet).
Safe Sex Practices: Reduce the risk of UTIs.
Avoid Irritants: Limit consumption of bladder irritants like caffeine, alcohol, and spicy foods.
Regular Medical Checkups: Especially if you have a history of urinary problems or risk factors for kidney disease.
Follow Doctor's Instructions: Adhere to prescribed medications and follow-up appointments.
How long does an outbreak last?
The duration of hematuria depends entirely on the underlying cause and its treatment.
UTIs: Hematuria typically resolves within a few days of starting antibiotics.
Kidney Stones: Hematuria may persist until the stone is passed or removed.
Other Causes: Duration varies widely depending on the condition and its management.
How is it diagnosed?
Urinalysis: A urine test to detect blood, infection, and other abnormalities.
Urine Culture: To identify bacteria if an infection is suspected.
Blood Tests: To assess kidney function and check for other abnormalities.
Cystoscopy: A procedure where a thin, flexible tube with a camera is inserted into the bladder to visualize the bladder lining.
Imaging Tests: CT scan, MRI, or ultrasound to visualize the kidneys, bladder, and ureters.
Kidney Biopsy: In some cases, a small sample of kidney tissue is taken for examination.
Timeline of Symptoms
The timeline of symptoms is dependent upon the underlying cause. For a UTI the timeline might be:
Day 1-2: frequent and painful urination.
Day 3: blood is seen in urine.
Day 4: diagnosis and medication starts.
Day 7: symtoms subside. For a Kidney stone it might be:
Day 1: lower back pain.
Day 2: pain persists.
Day 3: blood in urine is noticed.
Day 4: vomiting starts.
Day 5: diagnosis and medication starts.
Day 14: Stone is passed.
Important Considerations
Don't Ignore It: Hematuria should always be evaluated by a healthcare professional, even if it is painless or intermittent.
Medication Disclosure: Inform your doctor about all medications and supplements you are taking.
Family History: Share any relevant family medical history with your doctor.
Prompt Treatment: Early diagnosis and treatment of the underlying cause can prevent complications.
Follow-up: Attend all follow-up appointments and undergo any recommended testing.
Changes in Urine: Note changes in your urine and report to your doctor.