Hematuria

An Overview Of The Medical Condition

It is natural to get scared at the sight of blood in urine, which is medically referred to as “hematuria.” In most cases, there is no reason to panic as it can be treated effectively. At all times, it is best not to ignore the condition as this can cause serious complications. It is always advisable to get in touch with an efficient health provider at the earliest time possible for the right treatment and solutions.

The Two Types

When blood is visible in urine, it is known as “gross hematuria.” Blood in the urine may appear as pink, brown as in the color of tea, or typically red. In some cases, the blood is not visible to the naked eye. This is known as “microscopic hematuria” and is revealed only with the help of microscopic analysis.

In both types, the patient should undergo a full examination of the urinary tract. Thorough physical examination, along with study of the history of the patient and urinalysis, also form an integral part of the check-up.

Cause of Blood in the Urine

The cause may be infections or tumors in the urinary tract. A person suffering from kidney stones, diabetes or hypertension can also experience this problem. Consumption of red foods such as beets or berries in large quantities can result in the appearance of blood in urine. A person with a low platelet count is also vulnerable. Strenuous exercises such as long distance jogging or running may trigger “joggers’ hematuria” in runners. The repeated jerking of the bladder can result in this condition. At times, medications such as analgesics, antibiotics or anticoagulants can also cause blood in the urine. Trauma is even known to be one of the causes. Sometimes hematuria can signal cancer in the kidney, bladder, or the prostate gland.

Check the symptoms

Patients need to seek immediate medical attention once they see any symptoms. The first and most obvious indication is the visibility of a reddish hue or a foul smell in the urine. Nevertheless, if a person experiences chills or high fever, he should not neglect it and should go for a check-up right away. Other symptoms include pain in the back, flank, abdomen or the groin. In fact, any discomfort, pain in urination or a sudden urge to urinate calls for immediate medical attention. Women should be extra cautious as they might confuse Willebrand’s disease, a bleeding disorder, with hematuria.

Why blood in urine? The obvious question

Patients can relax and not panic when there is visible blood in their urine. They should consult with their doctor for an evaluation and subsequent action. Apart from taking the prescribed medications, a patient should drink plenty of water to clear away blood in urine. Repeated urine analysis in two weeks is essential.

Hematuria is a condition which is best handled with proper medical care and guidance. Do not try any home remedies. Seek medical guidance. This condition can be overcome with the right diagnosis and treatment.