Health

Understanding Hematuria : Treatment, Causes & Diagnostics

The presence of blood in urine is known as hematuria, which can be a concerning sign for many individuals. Disorders in the urinary system cause hematuria. Infection in the kidneys, uterus, bladder or urethra can add to the cause, however, in this blog we shall try to discuss about the same in an expanded manner.

What is hematuria?

It is a condition where there is the presence of blood in urine, further categorized into two types: Gross Hematuria(Visible blood in urine which can change the colour of the urine into deeper or thicker ones) & Microscopic Hematuria(No visible blood in the urine, but when checked through microscope its presence can be detected)

What causes hematuria?

There are many reasons which may lead to hematuria, some of them are mentioned below.

1. UTI or Urinary Tract Infections: It is caused due to bacterial infections in the urinary tract which further results in inflammation, soreness or bleeding.

2. Kidney infections or disorders: Just like UTIs, kidney infections can cause inflammation in the urinary system. Further leading to bleeding urine.

3. Kidney or bladder stones: When minute stones are formed due to the deposit of hard-formed minerals & salt, they may cause irritation, cuts and bleeding while passing through the urinary tract or system.

4. Medicine intake: Certain medications may also cause hematuria among adults. For example, anticoagulants can cause bleeding in the urinary tract or system.

5. Strenuous Exercise: Heavy workout sessions and heavy lifting may also cause blood in urine, which is also known as 'Runner's Hematuria'.

Symptoms of hematuria:

• Pain while urinating.
• Frequent urge to urine.
• Back pain or lower abdomen pain.
• Viral Fever.
• Fatigue.
• Nausea & vomiting tendency. 

Treatment & Diagnosis:

It's a two-way process, diagnosis to detect the exact nature of the issue, and treatment procedure to fight the condition. 

A diagnostic approach involves a thorough evaluation which may include various types of tests and screenings as described below:

1. Medical History: The Doctor will monitor the patient's medical history, recently consumed medications if any, chronic conditions and other symptoms for further investigation into the matter. 

2. Urine test: Urine routine examination test or urinalysis, can detect blood, protein, hard minerals and other substances too. It can also determine if there is any bacterial infection in the urinary system.

3. Blood test: A blood test can be conducted to determine abnormalities in the kidney. Related conditions may be signs of underlying diseases.

4. Scan tests: Certain scanning or imaging techniques can visualise and determine if there is any disorder, injury, deformity or infection in the urinary tract, bladder or urethra. 

5. Cystoscopy: In this procedure, a thin pipe with which a camera is attached is inserted into the body to examine the urinary system for any signs of disease.

When to seek medical assistance:

It is not always a medical emergency however if the symptoms get severe we recommend you to see your physician as soon as possible. 
• Frequent bleeding while urinating.
• Fever coming back with body pain and fatigue.
• Change in colour of your urine.

Here at Quickobook, you can book an appointment for your nearest physician with just one click. Early diagnosis of the underlying cause can prevent complications and promote a better quality of life.

Conclusion:

Hematuria is serious but understanding its cause and conducting proper diagnosis may treat it well. It is important to see the signs that our body gives out and respond accordingly without ignoring them. Hematuria can be managed only if you consult with your healthcare provider and take necessary measures right on time, ensuring better overall health.