Hematuria is the medical term for blood in the urine. “Microscopic hematuria” is blood seen only under a microscope; “gross hematuria” is visibly bloody urine. The blood can originate anywhere in the urinary tract, including from the kidneys, ureters (drainage tubes out of each kidney), bladder, or urethra.
Some common causes of hematuria are:
- Stones in the urinary tract
- Urinary tract infection (UTI)
- Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)
- Tumor in the urinary tract
- Medications
- Jogger’s hematuria
- Bleeding problems
- “Idiopathic” or unknown
Although the cause is not always identified, it is important to rule out the worst possibilities. An evaluation can include:
- Careful questioning and a physical exam
- Urine microscopy: evaluating the amount of blood and other abnormalities such as inflammatory cells or crystals in the urine
- Urine cytology: a pathologist checks for cancer cells in the urine
- Radiology testing: typically includes a CT urogram or IVP, tests that evaluate the inner lining of the kidneys and their drainage systems
- Cystoscopy: passage of a thin scope through the urethra into the bladder allowing the doctor to visually examine the inner lining of the urethra and bladder
If you ever have blood in the urine, it is important to be evaluated. The team of doctors at Fore River Urology understands this problem can cause patients and their families to worry. We will promptly get you the testing needed to thoroughly evaluate your hematuria. For an appointment, please call 207-518-6600.
Additional information can be found at the Urology Care Foundation website.
