Finding blood in your urine, known as hematuria, can be an alarming sign. While it can indicate a serious health issue, it's also important to note that blood in the urine has various causes, some of which are treatable if treated on time. To understand this condition better, we got in touch with two known urologists, Dr Amit Goel, Director and Head of Unit for Renal Transplant, Uro-oncology, Urology and Robotic Surgery at Max Super Specialty Hospital, Gurugram, and Dr Jitendra Kumar Sakhrani, Urologist at Wockhardt Hospitals, Mumbai Central, who shares causes, implications, and treatment options for hematuria.

Common Causes of Blood In Urine (Hematuria)

- Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)

UTIs are one of the most common reasons behind hematuria. They occur when bacteria, often Escherichia coli, infect the urinary system, leading to inflammation of the bladder (cystitis) or urethra. Symptoms include a burning sensation during urination, frequent urination, and cloudy or bloody urine. Dr Sakhrani shares that UTIs can result in pain and discomfort and typically require antibiotics to treat the infection, along with increased fluid intake to help flush out bacteria.

Another prevalent cause of blood in the urine is kidney stones—hard mineral deposits that can form in the kidneys and travel through the urinary tract. These stones can irritate the lining of the urinary tract, causing bleeding. Symptoms often include severe flank pain and difficulty urinating. For small stones, treatment usually includes hydration and pain management, while larger stones may require procedures such as shockwave lithotripsy, ureteroscopy, or even surgical removal. Dr Goel suggests dietary modifications to prevent stone formation, such as reducing salt and oxalate intake.

“In men, hematuria can also be attributed to an enlarged prostate. As men age, the prostate may become enlarged, exerting pressure on the urethra and causing urinary issues, including blood in the urine,” Dr Sakhrani said. Treatment options may involve medications like alpha-blockers or 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors and minimally invasive procedures like Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP). Dr Sakhrani shares that lifestyle changes, such as reducing caffeine and alcohol intake, can also be beneficial.

Conditions such as glomerulonephritis, which involves inflammation of the kidney's filtering units, can lead to hematuria. This condition may result from autoimmune diseases, infections, or diabetes. Treatment typically involves corticosteroids or immunosuppressive drugs to manage inflammation, along with addressing any underlying conditions.

Blood in urine can sometimes be an early indication of bladder or kidney cancer, especially in smokers or people exposed to industrial chemicals. Tumours can disrupt blood vessels in the bladder or kidneys, leading to hematuria. Treatment may involve surgical removal of tumours, chemotherapy, or immunotherapy. Dr Goel says it's important to get regular check-ups, particularly for those at higher risk.

Injuries resulting from accidents, excessive exercise, or catheter use can cause bleeding in the urinary system. For minor injuries, treatment typically involves rest and hydration, while severe trauma may require surgical intervention.

If you notice blood in your urine, it’s crucial to consult a urologist. Diagnostic tests may include urinalysis to check for infections or abnormalities, imaging tests like ultrasounds or CT scans to visualize urinary tract structures, and cystoscopy for direct inspection of the bladder. Both Dr Goel and Dr Sakhrani shares that hematuria should not be taken lightly. While it can arise from treatable conditions like infections or stones, it may also indicate serious issues such as cancer or kidney disease.

Maintaining proper hydration, avoiding smoking, and scheduling regular check-ups on urinary health are essential preventive strategies. Awareness of the potential causes of hematuria and prompt action in seeking medical attention can lead to better health outcomes.

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