Hematuria Specialist

What is Hematuria?

Many screening are performed routinely, including monitoring the urine for sugar, bacteria, and blood. When blood is found in the urine it is known as hematuria. Blood in the urine which is invisible to the naked eye is known as microscopic hematuria. This blood is solely viewable when utilizing a microscope. There are many factors which can cause hematuria and most are not a sign of a serious condition. However, it will need to be addressed by the doctor.

What Causes Hematuria?

Hematuria can be caused by:

• Urinary tract or prostate infection
• Enlarged Prostate in older men
• Kidney or bladder stones
• Menstrual periods in women
• Kidney disease or trauma
• Bladder or kidney cancer
• Blood thinning medications (aspirin, Coumadin/Warfarin)
• Anti-inflammatory drugs
• Strenuous workouts

The urologist will perform an assessment of physical symptoms and request lab tests to identify what is causing the blood to appear in the urine. When an individual can see the blood in his or her urine at a glance, it is referred to as “gross” hematuria, meaning it is significant. This type of bleeding is much more likely to be tied to a cancer or another type of serious health issue which will need medical care.

What Treatment is Used for Hematuria?

If an individual is told that he or she has microscopic hematuria, it is imperative not to obsess or overly stress about the situation because most conditions which cause this issue are not life threatening. It will be crucial to have a urine test performed again after the initial reading. The urologist will then talk about whether additional blood tests, urine tests, or imaging tests such as x-rays and cystoscopy are needed for a successful diagnosis. Listening to all the instructions given to you by the urologist will be very important. That way if the issue is more serious it can be treated as soon, and effectively, as possible. For more information or to schedule a consultation with the urologist, call the office today.