Known medically as hematuria, blood in the urine, should never be ignored. Fairbanks Urology recently covered this topic in a video, and this article expands on that discussion to help you better understand the causes, risks, and when to seek professional care.
What Is Hematuria?
Hematuria refers to the presence of blood in the urine and comes in two forms:
- Gross hematuria: Blood is visible to the naked eye.
- Microscopic hematuria: Blood is only detectable under a microscope during a urine test.
Both types can signal an underlying issue even if you don’t have any other symptoms.
What Could Cause Blood in Urine?
There are several possible causes of hematuria, ranging from mild to more serious. Here are the most common:
Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)
UTIs are one of the most frequent causes of blood in urine. They occur when bacteria enter the urinary system.
Other symptoms may include:
- Burning sensation during urination
- Frequent urge to urinate
- Cloudy or strong-smelling urine
Kidney Stones
Hard mineral deposits can form in the kidneys and cause irritation or blockage.
You may experience:
- Sharp pain in the back or side
- Nausea or vomiting
- Difficulty urinating
Enlarged Prostate (in men)
As men age, the prostate gland can enlarge and press against the urethra, causing urinary symptoms and sometimes blood in the urine.
Vigorous Exercise
Strenuous physical activity, especially long-distance running, can sometimes lead to temporary hematuria. While often harmless, it should still be evaluated if it persists.
Medications
Certain medications, such as blood thinners or anti-inflammatory drugs, may cause bleeding in the urinary tract.
Serious Conditions (Important Not to Ignore)
In some cases, blood in urine can indicate a more serious condition, including:
- Kidney disease
- Bladder or kidney cancer
- Urinary tract tumors
Early detection of these conditions is critical, which is why evaluation by a urology specialist is so important.
Should You Be Concerned?
The short answer: Yes, always take blood in your urine seriously.
Even if it happens only once or disappears quickly, it’s not something you should ignore. Many causes are easily treatable, especially when caught early. However, some conditions may worsen if left undiagnosed.
How Is Hematuria Diagnosed?
A thorough evaluation may include:
- Urinalysis: To detect blood, bacteria, or abnormalities.
- Imaging: Ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI to examine kidneys and bladder.
- Cystoscopy: A minimally invasive procedure to look inside the bladder.
- Blood tests: To assess kidney function.
Each diagnosis plan is tailored to your specific symptoms and medical history.
If you’ve noticed blood in your urine, schedule an appointment with Fairbanks Urology and get answers from the experts. Whether the cause is minor or more serious, the key is early evaluation and expert guidance.