Finding blood in your urine, called hematuria, can be an alarming sign. Although it may be a sign of a serious health problem, it is also important to note that there are various causes of blood in urine, some of which are curable if treated timely. To better understand this condition, we spoke to two renowned urologists, Dr Amit Goyal and Dr Jitendra Kumar Sakhrani, Director and Head of Renal Transplant, Uro-Oncology, Urology and Robotic Surgery Unit at Max Super Specialty Hospital, Gurugram. Contacted. Urologist at Wockhardt Hospital, Mumbai Central, who shares the causes, effects and treatment options of hematuria.

UTI is one of the most common causes of hematuria. They occur when bacteria, often Escherichia coli, infect the urinary system, causing inflammation of the bladder (cystitis) or urethritis. Symptoms include burning during urination, frequent urination, and cloudy or bloody urine. Dr. Sakhrani explains that UTIs can cause pain and discomfort and usually require antibiotics to treat the infection, as well as increased fluid intake to help flush out the bacteria.

Another prevalent cause of blood in the urine is kidney stones – hard mineral deposits that can form in the kidneys and move through the urinary tract. These stones can irritate the lining of the urinary tract, causing bleeding. Symptoms often include severe flank pain and difficulty urinating. For smaller stones, treatment usually involves hydration and pain management, while larger stones may require procedures such as shockwave lithotripsy, ureteroscopy, or even surgical removal. Dr. Goyal suggests dietary changes to prevent stone formation, such as reducing salt and oxalate intake.

“In men, hematuria can also be attributed to an enlarged prostate. As men age, the prostate can become larger, increasing pressure on the urethra and causing urinary problems, including blood in the urine,” Dr. Sakhrani said. Treatment options may include medications such as alpha-blockers or 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors and minimally invasive procedures such as transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP). Dr. Sakhrani shares that lifestyle changes, such as reducing caffeine and alcohol intake, may also be beneficial.

Conditions such as glomerulonephritis, which involves inflammation of the kidney’s filtering units, can cause hematuria. This condition can result from autoimmune diseases, infections, or diabetes. Treatment typically involves addressing any underlying conditions as well as corticosteroids or immunosuppressive medications to manage inflammation.

Blood in the urine can sometimes be an early sign of bladder or kidney cancer, especially in smokers or people exposed to industrial chemicals. The tumor may obstruct blood vessels in the bladder or kidneys, causing hematuria. Treatment may include surgical removal of the tumor, chemotherapy, or immunotherapy. Dr. Goyal says it is important to get regular checkups done, especially for those at high risk.

Injuries resulting from accidents, excessive exercise or use of catheters can cause bleeding in the urinary system. For minor injuries, treatment usually involves rest and hydration, while severe trauma may require surgical intervention.

If you notice blood in your urine, it is important to consult a urologist. Diagnostic tests may include urinalysis to check for infection or abnormalities, imaging tests such as ultrasound or CT scan to view urinary tract structures, and cystoscopy to directly inspect the bladder. Both Dr. Goyal and Dr. Sakhrani believe that hematuria should not be taken lightly. Although it can result from treatable conditions like infection or stones, it can also indicate serious issues like cancer or kidney disease.

Maintaining proper hydration, avoiding smoking, and scheduling regular checkups on urinary health are essential preventive strategies. Awareness of the possible causes of hematuria and prompt action in seeking medical help can lead to better health outcomes.

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