Blood in the urine

Blood in the urine, also known as hematuria, is a medical condition characterized by the presence of red blood cells (erythrocytes) in the urine. It can be categorized into two types: microscopic hematuria and gross hematuria.

Causes

Blood in the urine can be caused by a variety of conditions, including:

• Urinary tract infections (UTIs): These are often caused by bacteria that enter the urethra and travel to the bladder.
• Kidney infections: These occur when bacteria enter the kidneys, usually through the bloodstream.
• Kidney stones: These are hard deposits of minerals and salts that form inside the kidneys.
• Bladder stones: These are hard masses of minerals in the bladder.
• Kidney disease: Various diseases can cause kidney damage, including diabetes and high blood pressure.
• Cancer: Blood in the urine can be a sign of kidney or bladder cancer.

Symptoms

In addition to blood in the urine, other symptoms may include:

• Pain during urination
• Frequent urination
• Urgent need to urinate
• Pain in the lower back or abdomen

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of blood in the urine typically involves a series of tests, including:

• Urinalysis: This is a test of a urine sample to check for various substances, including blood, protein, and bacteria.
• Imaging tests: These may include a CT scan, MRI, or ultrasound to visualize the urinary tract and kidneys.
• Cystoscopy: This is a procedure to examine the inside of the bladder and urethra.

Treatment

Treatment for blood in the urine depends on the underlying cause. It may include antibiotics for infections, medication to dissolve bladder or kidney stones, or surgery for cancers or severe kidney diseases.