Hematuria- Causes and prevention: A problem that has increased rapidly during the monsoon season is called hematuria. Hematuria is a condition in which the affected person has blood in his urine. This blood can be so little that it can only be seen under a microscope (microscopic hematuria), or so much that it changes the color of the urine (obvious hematuria).
According to Dr. Mukund Andankar, urologist at Wockhardt Hospital, Mumbai, bleeding in urine can be a serious problem, hence it should not be ignored.
Causes of hematuria
There can be many causes of blood in the urine, including:
- Urinary tract infection (UTI)
- Kidney Stone
- tumor or cancer in the bladder or kidney
- Enlargement of the prostate
- intense exercise
- kidney or urinary tract injury
Early symptoms of hematuria
- blood in the urine, which may be pink, red, or cola-colored
- Burning or pain when urinating
- frequent urination
- Pain in the side of the groin or abdomen
- Fever (if there is an infection)
- Blood clots in the urine
Treatment of hematuria
Treatment of hematuria depends on its cause. Diagnosis may involve blood and urine tests as well as imaging tests such as ultrasound or CT scans. In some cases, a cystoscopy may also be needed to look inside the bladder and take a biopsy.
For transitions: Antibiotics are given.
For gallstones: Pain medications, drinking plenty of water, and procedures to remove the stone may be recommended.
For tumors: After diagnosis, treatment methods such as surgery, chemotherapy or radiation are used.
For enlargement of the prostate: Medication or surgery is recommended depending on the severity of the condition.
Prevention of hematuria
- Drinking water: Drinking adequate amount of water keeps the body hydrated and healthy.
- Avoid strenuous exercise: Excessive strenuous exercise can cause blood in the urine. Therefore, consult an expert before starting a workout routine.
- Quit smoking: Smoking and tobacco use can cause cancer. Cancer can also cause hematuria.
If you notice any symptoms like bleeding in urine, contact a doctor immediately. The sooner it is detected, the sooner it can be treated.
