Understanding the Causes of Blood in Urine
Whether you have noticed a few reddish drops in the toilet after relieving yourself or have experienced severe pain and discomfort while urinating, the discovery of blood in your urine can be a cause for alarm. Known medically as hematuria, this condition can have a number of underlying causes, some of which are relatively harmless while others are more serious.
In this article, we will explore the most common reasons why people experience blood in their urine, the symptoms and warning signs to look out for, and what to do if you suspect that you might be suffering from this condition.
What is Hematuria?
Hematuria refers to the presence of red blood cells in your urine. It can be categorized into two types:
- Gross Hematuria: This is when the blood in your urine is visible to the naked eye, giving your urine a reddish, pink, or brownish color.
- Microscopic Hematuria: This is when blood is not visible in your urine, but is detected through a laboratory test.
If you experience any of these types of hematuria, it is important to speak to a healthcare professional right away.
15 Common Causes of Hematuria
1. Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)
UTIs are one of the most common causes of gross hematuria, especially in women. These infections can lead to inflammation and irritation of the bladder and urethra, causing blood to appear in your urine. Along with blood in the urine, UTIs can also cause pain or burning during urination, a strong urge to urinate, and cloudy or foul-smelling urine.
2. Bladder or Kidney Stones
Bladder and kidney stones are another common cause of hematuria. When these stones pass through the urinary tract, they can cause bleeding, pain, and discomfort. Along with blood in the urine, you may experience sharp pain in your abdomen, back, or sides, and a frequent need to urinate.
3. Enlarged Prostate
Enlarged prostate, or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), is a condition in which the prostate gland grows larger and presses against the urethra, making it difficult to urinate. BPH can cause blood in the urine, as well as a weak urine stream, difficulty starting to urinate, dribbling after urination, and a frequent need to urinate.
4. Urinary Tract Injuries
Injuries to the urinary tract, such as those caused by accidents or from medical procedures, can cause blood to appear in your urine. You may also experience pain, swelling, or tenderness in your abdomen or back.
5. Medications
Certain medications, such as blood thinners, aspirin, and antibiotics, can cause blood to appear in your urine. If you suspect that your medication might be causing this side effect, speak to your healthcare professional about alternative treatment options.
6. Inherited Conditions
Sometimes, hematuria can be caused by inherited conditions, such as sickle cell anemia, Alport syndrome, and von Hippel-Lindau disease. If you have a family history of any of these conditions, it is important to speak to your healthcare professional about your risk of developing hematuria.
7. Cancer
Hematuria can be a sign of bladder, kidney, or prostate cancer. If you are over the age of 50 and experience blood in your urine, it is important to speak to your healthcare professional right away.
8. Kidney Diseases
Diseases of the kidney, such as glomerulonephritis and polycystic kidney disease, can cause blood to appear in your urine. These conditions can also cause swelling, high blood pressure, and changes in urination patterns.
9. Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)
STIs such as chlamydia and gonorrhea can cause hematuria, along with other symptoms such as pain during sex, discharge from the genitals, and painful urination.
10. Prostatitis
Prostatitis is a condition in which the prostate gland becomes inflamed, causing pain and discomfort. Along with blood in the urine, you may experience pain or burning during urination, pain in your lower back, and a frequent need to urinate.
11. Lupus
Lupus is an autoimmune condition that can cause inflammation in different parts of the body, including the kidneys. If you have lupus and experience hematuria, it is important to speak to your healthcare professional right away.
12. Blood Disorders
Some blood disorders, such as hemophilia and thrombocytopenia, can cause blood to appear in your urine. If you have a history of these conditions, it is important to speak to your healthcare professional about your risk of developing hematuria.
13. Vasculitis
Vasculitis is a condition in which the blood vessels become inflamed, causing a range of symptoms such as fatigue, joint pain, and kidney damage. Hematuria can be a sign of this condition, along with other symptoms such as fever, weight loss, and skin rash.
14. Exercise
Intense exercise, especially activities such as long-distance running, can cause blood to appear in your urine. This is typically a harmless condition known as “runner’s hematuria,” and it often resolves on its own.
15. Dehydration
Dehydration can cause blood to appear in your urine, especially if you are not drinking enough water. Along with hematuria, you may experience symptoms such as fatigue, dizziness, and dry mouth.
When to See a Healthcare Professional
While some cases of hematuria may be relatively harmless and resolve on their own, it is important to speak to a healthcare professional if you experience any of the following symptoms:
- Blood clots or a consistent stream of blood in your urine
- Severe pain or discomfort when urinating
- Fever or chills
- Nausea or vomiting
- Difficulty urinating or a weak urine stream
- Abdominal or back pain
If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention right away.
Diagnosing Hematuria
To determine the underlying cause of your hematuria, your healthcare professional may perform a series of tests, including:
- Urine tests to look for signs of infection, inflammation, or cancer cells
- Blood tests to check for signs of kidney disease or other conditions
- Imaging tests such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs to visualize the urinary tract and identify any abnormalities
- Cystoscopy, a procedure in which a small camera is inserted into the bladder to look for signs of infection or cancer
Treatment Options for Hematuria
The treatment for hematuria depends on the underlying cause. Some treatment options may include:
- Antibiotics to treat bacterial infections
- Medications to manage prostate enlargement or inflammation
- Surgery to remove kidney or bladder stones, or to repair a urinary tract injury
- Chemotherapy or radiation therapy to treat cancer
- Lifestyle modifications such as staying hydrated or avoiding certain medications
It is important to follow your healthcare professional’s guidance on treatment options, and to attend all follow-up appointments to monitor your condition.
Conclusion
Blood in your urine can be a sign of a number of underlying conditions, ranging from relatively harmless to more serious. By understanding the common causes of hematuria and speaking to a healthcare professional right away if you experience any symptoms, you can take an active role in managing your health and well-being.
- Q: Is blood in urine always a sign of cancer?
- A: No, blood in urine can be caused by a number of underlying conditions, such as urinary tract infections, kidney stones, or prostate enlargement.
- Q: Is hematuria always painful?
- A: No, hematuria may not be painful at all. However, if you experience any pain or discomfort while urinating or otherwise, it is important to speak to a healthcare professional right away.
- Q: Can I treat hematuria on my own?
- A: It is important to speak to a healthcare professional before attempting to treat hematuria on your own. Depending on the underlying cause, you may require medical treatment, lifestyle modifications, or other interventions to manage your condition.
References:
- Mayo Clinic. “Blood in urine (hematuria).” Mayo Clinic.
- Harvard Health Publishing. “Blood in the urine.” Harvard Health Publishing.
- WebMD. “Hematuria: Blood in urine.” WebMD.
- National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. “Hematuria (Blood in the Urine).” National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases.