Urology insights with Dr Akhbar pt 2

 


🚨 Blood in Urine (Hematuria): What It Means and When to Worry



One of the most alarming symptoms that brings patients to me is seeing blood in the urine. Whether it’s visible to the eye or found on a routine urine test, hematuria should never be ignored.


Let’s understand what it means, when it’s serious, and what to do next.





🩸 What Is Hematuria?



Hematuria simply means blood in the urine. It is of two types:


  1. Visible Hematuria (Gross)
    You can see blood – urine may look red, pink, or cola-colored.
  2. Invisible Hematuria (Microscopic)
    Blood cells are detected only under a microscope or in a urine test.






🔍 Is It Always Serious?



Not always—but it should always be evaluated. Causes range from harmless to serious. Blood in urine can come from anywhere in the urinary tract: kidneys, ureters, bladder, prostate, or urethra.





🧾 Common Causes of Blood in Urine

  

Cause

Description

Urinary Tract Infection

Burning sensation, urgency, fever, and blood in urine

Kidney Stones

Sharp back pain, blood in urine, may pass stones

Enlarged Prostate (BPH)

In older men; causes straining, poor flow, or dribbling

Bladder/Kidney Cancer

Especially in older adults, smokers; often painless bleeding

Strenuous Exercise

Rare; seen in runners or athletes

Menstruation/Vaginal Bleed

In women, needs to be differentiated from true hematuria

Glomerulonephritis

Kidney disease; often with high BP or protein in urine

Trauma or Injury

After falls, accidents, or catheter insertions


⚠️ Red Flags That Need Urgent Urology Attention



  • Painless visible blood in urine
  • Blood clots in urine
  • Weight loss, fatigue, or back pain
  • Family history of urologic cancers
  • Age over 50 and a smoker






🧪 How Is Hematuria Investigated?



As a urologist, I usually recommend a stepwise evaluation:


  1. Urine Analysis & Culture – Check for infection or red blood cells
  2. Ultrasound KUB – Basic imaging for stones or masses
  3. CT Urogram – Detailed scan of kidneys, ureters, bladder
  4. Cystoscopy – A camera test to inspect the bladder from inside
  5. PSA blood test – In men over 50, to check for prostate issues



Each case is different, and the exact steps depend on age, symptoms, and risk factors.





✅ What Should You Do?



  • Don’t panic – but don’t ignore blood in urine either.
  • See a urologist promptly for evaluation.
  • Even if it happens just once, get it checked.
  • Early detection of a serious cause like cancer can save lives.






👨‍⚕️ Final Thoughts from Dr. Akhbar



Blood in urine is your body’s warning signal. While it may turn out to be a minor issue, it can also be the first sign of a serious problem. The earlier we investigate, the better your chances of treatment and peace of mind.





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