Hematuria/Blood in the Urine

Blood in the urine, also known as hematuria, can be a cause for alarm. While it can be a sign of a serious underlying condition, it often has benign causes. At Urology Specialists of Ohio, our urologists understand the worry associated with hematuria. We offer a comprehensive evaluation to determine the cause of blood in your urine and provide effective treatment options.

Understanding Hematuria

Hematuria can manifest in different ways. You might notice visible blood in the urine (gross hematuria) or blood cells detected only through microscopic analysis (microscopic hematuria). Our urologists will take a detailed medical history and conduct a thorough examination to identify the source of the bleeding.

Causes of Hematuria

Blood in the urine can arise from various parts of the urinary tract, including the kidneys, ureters (tubes connecting kidneys to bladder), bladder, and urethra. Some common causes of hematuria include:

• Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): UTIs are a frequent cause of hematuria, especially in women.
• Kidney Stones: Stones passing through the urinary tract can irritate and cause bleeding.
• Enlarged Prostate: In men, an enlarged prostate gland can put pressure on blood vessels and cause bleeding.
• Medications: Certain medications, such as blood thinners or aspirin, can increase the risk of bleeding, including hematuria.
• Medical Conditions: Some medical conditions, like kidney disease or cancer, can also cause blood in the urine.

Evaluation and Diagnosis

At Urology Specialists of Ohio, our urologists will conduct a comprehensive evaluation to diagnose the cause of your hematuria. This may involve a combination of tests, such as:

• Medical History and Physical Exam: Discussing your symptoms and medical history, along with a physical exam, can provide valuable clues about the underlying cause.
• Urine Tests: Urinalysis can detect the presence of blood cells, infection, or other abnormalities.
• Imaging Tests: Depending on the suspected cause, imaging tests like ultrasound, X-ray, or CT scan may be used to visualize the urinary tract and identify potential problems.
• Cystoscopy: In some cases, a cystoscopy may be necessary. This procedure involves inserting a thin scope through the urethra to directly examine the bladder for abnormalities.

Treatment for Hematuria

The treatment for hematuria depends on the underlying cause. Once diagnosed, our urologists will recommend the most appropriate treatment course, which may involve:

• Treating Underlying Conditions: If an infection or other medical condition is causing hematuria, addressing the root cause will often resolve the bleeding.
• Medications: For certain conditions, medications may be prescribed to manage bleeding or treat infections.
• Minimally Invasive Procedures: Depending on the cause, minimally invasive procedures may be used to address the source of bleeding, such as removing kidney stones.

When to Seek Medical Attention

Blood in the urine, especially if accompanied by pain, burning urination, or fever, warrants a prompt evaluation by a urologist. Early diagnosis and treatment can lead to better outcomes.