Blood in urine is categorized two separate ways: gross hematuria and microscopic hematuria.
Gross hematuria describes blood you can physically see in urine (it may appear brown- or pink-colored), whereas microscopic hematuria describes blood that can only be detected under a microscope during a urinalysis. Both conditions develop when your kidneys or surrounding organs allow red blood cells to seep into urine.
Patients typically do not feel any pain with hematuria unless they are passing blood clots. Hematuria is often a symptom of another condition which could range from simple, easy-to-treat conditions to more serious illnesses like cancer. Additional testing may be performed by our Affiliated Urologists physicians to determine the presence of red blood cells and underlying cause. A few examples of possible conditions or ailments include:
- Urinary tract Infection
- Sickle cell disease
- Kidney or bladder cancer
- Kidney or bladder infection
- Polycystic kidney disease
- Enlarged prostate
- Blood clotting disorders
Some cases of hematuria do not come from a particular disease or illness. If patients are hit near the kidneys, or they fall on their upper back or abdomen, renal trauma may ensue . Sexual intercourse may be another cause of hematuria. First, sexual activity increases the risk of getting a urinary tract infection because bacteria could enter the urethra. According to a study conducted by Harris, Yardley, Basketter, and Holmes, six out of the 24 women they tested developed microscopic hematuria after sexual activity and none of them had it previously. In rare cases, red-colored urine may not be due to hematuria at all. Dietary supplements, medication, or foods that contain artificial coloring may turn urine red. Finally, another rare cause of hematuria is rigorous exercise, particularly those who run sprints or do strenuous cardio exercises.
Men and women of all ages are at risk of developing hematuria. Nevertheless, individuals over 40 are usually at an increased risk of developing hematuria due to a disease, whereas younger patients may develop blood in urine from an injury. Smoking cigarettes also increases the chances of developing hematuria.
If patients notice a dark or light-red tint in their urine, we urge them to make an appointment at Affiliated Urologists. The sooner we are able to determine the cause of hematuria, the sooner we can start a treatment plan. Most conditions, particularly cancer, are easier to treat if detected early, so please do not hesitate to give us a call at either of our Phoenix offices or our Scottsdale location!
Affiliated Urologists is an award-winning practice recognized both locally and nationally that has provided service to patients in Phoenix, Scottsdale, and surrounding communities in the Valley, for over 40 years. The physicians emphasize top-of-the-line comprehensive urological care and strive to deliver the highest outcomes for patient satisfaction. To make an appointment, call 602-264-0608 or visit http://affiliatedurologists.com/contact/ for instructions on scheduling an appointment.
The advice and information contained in this article is for educational purposes only, and is not intended to replace or counter a physician’s advice or judgment. Please always consult your physician before taking any advice learned here or in any other educational medical material.
