Hematuria

Hematuria is the presence of blood in the urine, which can be classified into two types: gross hematuria, where blood is visible to the naked eye, and microscopic hematuria, where blood is only detected under a microscope. It can be caused by various conditions, ranging from benign to more serious underlying health issues.

Common causes of hematuria include urinary tract infections (UTIs), kidney stones, trauma, or vigorous physical activity. In some cases, it may be associated with medical conditions such as bladder or kidney cancer, glomerulonephritis, or inherited disorders like polycystic kidney disease.

Hematuria can be accompanied by other symptoms like pain during urination, frequent urination, or fever, depending on the underlying cause. It is essential to evaluate hematuria promptly, as it can be a sign of a serious condition, particularly when it is persistent or associated with other concerning symptoms.

Diagnosis typically involves a thorough medical history, physical examination, urine tests (such as urinalysis), imaging studies (like ultrasound or CT scan), and sometimes cystoscopy or kidney biopsy. Treatment is directed at the underlying cause, whether it involves medications for infections, procedures to remove kidney stones, or more complex interventions for cancers or other serious conditions.