Urinary bleeding, or hematuria, can be caused by a variety of medical or behavioral factors. It can be microscopic or visible, and diagnostic tests may be necessary to determine the underlying cause. Treatment depends on the cause, and preventative measures include maintaining a healthy lifestyle and avoiding exposure to toxic chemicals.
Passing blood while urinating is a common condition known as urinary bleeding or hematuria. Individuals can experience urinary bleeding for a variety of reasons which may be behavioral or medical in nature. Because there is no single, well-established treatment for hematuria, treatment depends on the underlying cause of the urinary bleeding.
There are two presentations associated with urinary bleeding. Microscopic hematuria is the passage of blood in the urine that is invisible to the naked eye. Detectable only under a microscope, this form of hematuria can be detected during routine testing or evaluations for secondary conditions. Visible bleeding is known as gross hematuria.
Several factors can contribute to the passage of blood during urination. The urinary tract is made up of several organs, including the bladder, kidneys and urethra. A hematuria occurs when blood cells are allowed to pass into urine which is passed out through the urethra. Any organ associated with the production, storage or passage of urine can lose blood cells.
Urinary tract infections are the most common condition associated with the development of hematuria. Additional conditions such as kidney disease, cancer, and an enlarged prostate can contribute to the development of a hematuria. Common problems affecting the kidneys, such as stones and bacterial infections such as pyelonephritis, can also cause bleeding. Regular use of some over-the-counter and prescription medications, such as aspirin and penicillin, can contribute to the passage of blood. Strenuous exercise, eating certain foods, and injury to the kidney region can also cause severe hematuria.
Individuals with urinary bleeding may urinate red, pink, or brownish in color. The darker shade of the urine is due to the presence of leaked blood cells. Symptomatic individuals usually have no pain and no other symptoms. However, in cases where blood clots develop, individuals may experience pain as the clots pass into the urine. Although some cases of hematuria may be temporary and benign in nature, medical attention and testing should be sought as a precautionary measure for persistent symptoms.
There are several diagnostic tests that can be done in addition to a physical exam to determine the underlying cause of a hematuria. A urinalysis may be done to check for signs of infection or mineral markers indicative of the presence of kidney or bladder stones. Imaging tests, such as a computed tomography (CT) scan, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and ultrasound may be done to evaluate the condition of the bladder and kidneys. In some cases, a cystoscopy may be needed to take a closer look at the urethra and bladder. Sometimes the cause of a hematuria can be elusive, requiring regular monitoring and periodic testing.
Treatment for a hematuria depends entirely on its underlying cause. The use of antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs may be necessary if you have a urinary tract infection or kidney disease. Other conditions, such as cancer and inherited diseases, may require extensive treatment which may include the use of drug therapies, surgery and blood transfusions.
While hematuria can affect anyone of any age, there are some individuals who may be at increased risk for this condition. Individuals who are recovering from a kidney infection, are taking certain prescription medications, or have a family history of kidney stones or disease may be more likely to become symptomatic. Additionally, those who participate in contact sports or regularly adhere to a strenuous exercise regimen may increase the risk of developing hematuria due to injury or strain. Drinking lots of water, maintaining a healthy body weight, and eating a healthy, balanced diet can reduce your risk of developing conditions that can contribute to the development of a hematuria. Quitting smoking, staying active, and avoiding environments that are conducive to exposure to toxic chemicals can also reduce an individual’s risk of developing conditions that can lead to urinary bleeding.
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