Hematuria

Hematuria refers to the presence of blood in the urine. It can be:

• Gross hematuria: Blood is visible to the naked eye. Urine may appear pink, red, cola coloured, or tea coloured.
• Microscopic hematuria: Blood is detected only under a microscope during laboratory testing.

Hematuria itself is not a disease. It is a sign that something may be affecting the urinary system, which includes the kidneys, ureters, bladder, prostate in men, and urethra. Causes range from urinary tract infections and kidney stones to prostate enlargement, kidney disease, structural abnormalities, and, rarely, cancers of the urinary tract.

The most obvious symptom is blood in the urine. However, hematuria may be accompanied by other symptoms depending on the underlying cause:

• Burning sensation or pain while passing urine
• Increased frequency or urgency of urination
• Flank pain or lower abdominal pain
• Fever with chills, especially in kidney infections
• Passage of blood clots in urine
• Difficulty in urination in older men

Sometimes, particularly in microscopic hematuria, there may be no visible symptoms at all. It may be detected incidentally during routine health checkups. Even painless hematuria requires evaluation, especially in individuals over 40 years of age.

If you notice blood in your urine even once, it is advisable to consult a doctor rather than assume it is due to food, medication, or exercise.

We start with a thorough medical history and physical examination. This includes:

• Urinalysis: To verify the presence of blood and evaluate for infection, protein, or abnormal cells.
• Urine culture: When there is suspicion of infection.
• Blood studies: To evaluate renal function and screen for systemic diseases.
• Ultrasound of the kidneys and bladder: To visualize stones, cysts, abnormalities, or masses.
• CT scan or specialized imaging: When indicated for more in-depth analysis.
• Cystoscopy: A procedure whereby a small camera is passed through the bladder to directly visualize the bladder lining, particularly when there is persistent or unexplained hematuria.

The aim is not only to establish the diagnosis of hematuria but also to identify its cause and extent.

Treatment depends entirely on the underlying cause.

• Urinary tract infections are treated with the right antibiotics.
• Stones in the kidneys or bladder may need medications, lifestyle modifications, or surgical removal.
• Prostate enlargement is treated with medications or surgery when needed.
• Kidney diseases are treated with specific medical attention.

Consult experienced urologists at UMC Hospital for the best hematuria treatment in Navi Mumbai.

For comprehensive hematuria treatment, a team approach between urologists, nephrologists, radiologists, and lab experts is necessary. At our multi-specialty hospital in Navi Mumbai, we provide organized approaches to diagnosis and follow-up care for patients with recurring or chronic hematuria.

Early consultation improves outcomes, especially when hematuria is linked to kidney disease or urinary tract cancers. Timely evaluation, accurate diagnosis, and appropriate urology treatment in Navi Mumbai at UMC Hospitals can help ensure that underlying conditions are addressed safely and effectively. If you or a family member notices blood in the urine, do not delay seeking medical advice.