Hematuria, or blood in the urine, can be a startling and concerning symptom for many individuals. While it is not always a sign of a serious condition, it should never be ignored. Recognizing the common causes and knowing when to seek medical evaluation is essential for safeguarding your urinary health. In this blog, we’ll examine the reasons behind hematuria and when it’s time to consult a urologist like Dr. Yaniv Larish at Fifth Avenue Urology.
Types of Hematuria
Hematuria is generally categorized into two types:
- Gross Hematuria: Visible blood in the urine that gives it a pink, red, or cola-colored appearance.
- Microscopic Hematuria: Blood in the urine that is not visible to the naked eye but is detected during a urine test.
Both types warrant medical attention, even if they are not accompanied by pain or other symptoms.
Common Causes of Blood in Urine
Hematuria can stem from a range of benign or serious conditions. Some of the most common causes include:
Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)
UTIs are a leading cause of hematuria, particularly in women. When bacteria infect the bladder or urethra, inflammation can lead to visible or microscopic bleeding.
Kidney Stones
Sharp, hard mineral deposits that form in the kidneys can cause irritation, pain, and bleeding as they pass through the urinary tract.
Enlarged Prostate (Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia – BPH)
In men, an enlarged prostate can press on the urethra and affect bladder function, sometimes resulting in blood in the urine.
Kidney Disease
Various forms of kidney disease, such as glomerulonephritis, can cause microscopic bleeding. Often, this is detected during routine lab tests even in the absence of other symptoms.
Bladder or Kidney Infections
Infections that reach the bladder or kidneys can irritate tissue and cause bleeding. These may be accompanied by fever, back pain, or frequent urination.
Trauma or Injury
A blow to the kidneys or lower abdomen, often from contact sports or accidents, can lead to bleeding into the urinary tract.
Exercise-Induced Hematuria
Intense physical activity, especially high-impact sports like running, can sometimes cause temporary hematuria due to bladder trauma or dehydration.
Urological Cancers
Though less common, cancers of the kidney, bladder, or prostate may first present as blood in the urine. Early diagnosis is key to successful treatment.
When to Seek Medical Help
While some causes of hematuria are benign, it’s important to be evaluated by a urologist if you experience:
- Visible blood in your urine (especially if persistent or recurring)
- Pain or burning with urination
- Lower back or abdominal pain
- Unexplained weight loss or fatigue
- Frequent or urgent urination
A thorough evaluation may include urine analysis, blood tests, imaging studies such as ultrasound or CT scans, and in some cases, cystoscopy (a visual examination of the bladder).
Common Causes of Blood in Urine and When to Seek Help: Conclusion
Blood in the urine can be a sign of many different conditions—some minor and others requiring urgent medical care. Prompt evaluation is essential for proper diagnosis and peace of mind. At Fifth Avenue Urology, Dr. Yaniv Larish offers expert evaluation and treatment of hematuria using advanced diagnostic tools and patient-focused care.
FIFTH AVENUE UROLOGY
Dr. Yaniv Larish
4 East 76th Street
New York, NY 10021
Phone: 212-675-3186
Visit: https://www.fifthavenueurology.com