Blood In The Urine (Hematuria)

There are many causes and origins for blood in the urine. The blood may or may not be visible to the naked eye. Most often blood is diagnosed microscopically by collecting a urine specimen and performing a dipstick test. More obvious and alarming to the patient is when bleeding is visible, as in gross bleeding.

Bleeding does not always indicate a serious condition. However, persistent blood in the urine requires a comprehensive evaluation to eliminate any serious potential underlying conditions. Possible tools to evaluate bleeding might include:

• Supplemental advanced urinary testing
• Radiographic imaging
• Cystoscopy and Ureteroscopy

FAQ

Is Hematuria a recurring problem?

An abnormal amount of blood in the urine can either be an acute (suddenly occurring) or a chronic (long-term, ongoing) problem. Cases of acute hematuria can recur.

What causes blood in the urine?

Hematuria can arise from any conditions that results in infection, inflammation of injury to the urinary system. The most common cause of hematuria is damage to the kidneys. However, infections of the urinary tract, blockages in the form of tumors, stones etc, viral infections and more can all result in hematuria. Although many cases of hematuria aren’t serious, it’s important to see your doctor immediately after noticing blood in the urine.

Other than Hematuria, what else can cause pink, red or brown urine?

There are reasons for discolored urine that have nothing to do with bleeding in the urine. Some medications such as Ex-lax may contribute to the change in color, as can eating certain foods. Foods like rhubarb, berries and beets may result in red urine if consumed in mass quantities. Typically, a change in urine color caused by foods, medication or exercise will subside within a matter of days. It is important to see your doctor in any case.

Who Is At Risk of Hematuria?

Anyone, including children can have blood in the urine. A number of factors can cause hematuria:

• Many men over the age of 50 are at greater risk of hemutaria due to an enlarged prostate gland
• More than half of all women will contract a urinary infection at least once in their life
• Young men are more likely to have kidney stones
• Those with a family history of kidney disease or kidney stones are more prone to urinary bleeding
• Strenuous exercise can result in blood in the urine
• Certain medications such as aspirin and antibiotics increase the risk of urinary bleeding
• Kidney infection is the leading cause of visible urinary blood in children

Dr. Frank sees patients at his West Orange office from nearby New Jersey towns, serving Livingson, Short Hills, Millburn, Maplewood, Montclair, Essex Fells, South Orange, Verona, Caldwell, and West Caldwell.