Introduction
Microhematuria is a medical condition in which red blood cells are found in the urine. It is a common finding in routine urine tests and can indicate an underlying medical condition. Although it may not always be a cause for concern, it is important to investigate the cause of microhematuria to rule out any serious underlying conditions. This article will explore the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options for microhematuria to provide a better understanding of this condition.
What Are the Causes of Microhematuria?
There are many possible causes of microhematuria, which can vary from small issues to more severe underlying health conditions which are as under:
Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): Urinary tract infections (UTIs) caused by bacterial infections are one of the leading causes of microhematuria. Inflammation and irritation caused by the infection can result in microhematuria.
Kidney Stones: These are the hard mineral deposits that are found in the kidneys and can cause microhematuria when they pass through the urinary tract. The sharp edges of the stones can cause small tears in the urinary tract, leading to blood in the urine.
Enlarged Prostate: Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), also called an enlarged prostate is a medical condition that affects older men and can cause microhematuria. The prostate gland's growth can pressure the urethra and bladder, leading to inflammation and irritation that can cause blood in the urine.
Cancer: In some cases, microhematuria may indicate the presence of cancer in the urinary tract or other parts of the body, such as bladder cancer, kidney cancer, or prostate cancer. It is necessary to consult a doctor and gain medical attention immediately if the microhematuria is accompanied by other symptoms such as pain, fatigue, or weight loss.
Medications: Some medications like anti-inflammatory drugs and blood thinners can cause microhematuria as a side effect. If you are taking any medication and experience blood in your urine, the patient must speak with the doctor to determine if the medications one is taking could be causing the issue.
Exercise: Vigorous exercise, especially activities such as running, can sometimes cause microhematuria. The impact of exercise on the urinary tract can cause small tears and bleeding.
What Are the Symptoms of Microhematuria?
The following symptoms may be associated with microhematuria:
No Symptoms: Microhematuria may not cause any symptoms and may be discovered through routine urine tests or during screening for other medical conditions.
Visible Blood in Urine: Some cases of microhematuria may result in visible blood in urine, which can appear pink, red, or brownish in color. This is called gross hematuria.
Pain or Discomfort during Urination: Individuals with microhematuria may experience pain or discomfort while urinating, which shows a sign of an underlying infection or inflammation.
Frequent Urination: Frequent urination may be a sign of an underlying medical condition, such as a bladder infection or bladder cancer.
Abdominal Pain: Abdominal pain may be a symptom of a kidney stone or bladder infection. Severe abdominal pain accompanying microhematuria requires immediate medical attention.
Back Pain: Back pain may be a symptom of a primary medical condition like kidney stones, urinary tract infections, or bladder cancer. Severe back pain accompanying microhematuria requires immediate medical attention.
Fever and Chills: Fever and chills may be a sign of an underlying infection. If microhematuria is accompanied by fever and chills, immediate medical attention is necessary.
How to Diagnose Microhematuria?
To diagnose microhematuria, doctors typically take the following steps:
Physical Examination: Doctors begin the diagnostic process with a physical examination. During this examination, they inspect the abdomen and pelvic region for tenderness or swelling.
Urine Test: Doctors order a urine test to identify the presence of red blood cells in the urine. This test could also include a culture to detect bacterial infections.
Imaging Tests: Doctors may conduct imaging tests like ultrasound, CT scans or MRI to examine the urinary tract, kidneys, and bladder for structural abnormalities and tumors.
Cystoscopy: Cystoscopy is a procedure that involves inserting a slender tube with a camera into the bladder and urethra to examine them for abnormalities, such as tumors or stones.
Kidney Function Tests: Doctors may also perform blood tests to determine kidney function and assess electrolyte levels.
Biopsy: If there is a possibility of kidney or bladder cancer, a biopsy could be necessary to get a tissue sample for further examination under a microscope.
What Is the Treatment of Microhematuria?
The treatment of microhematuria is as under:
Identifying and Treating Underlying Conditions: The first step in treating microhematuria is identifying the underlying cause. Treatment approaches can vary from a patient's simple lifestyle changes to medication or surgery. Some of the underlying causes of microhematuria include kidney disease, urinary tract infections, kidney stones, bladder cancer, and prostate cancer.
Medications: In certain cases, medications may be prescribed to treat the underlying cause of microhematuria. Antibiotics can be used to treat urinary tract infections, while pain medication can be used to alleviate discomfort caused by kidney stones. Immunotherapy drugs may also be prescribed for conditions like lupus that can result in microhematuria.
Lifestyle Modifications: Making certain lifestyle modifications can be beneficial in managing microhematuria. Staying hydrated is crucial as it helps flush out irritants and bacteria that may be causing the condition. Reducing salt intake can also help manage high blood pressure that may lead to kidney damage and microhematuria. Quitting smoking is also necessary as it can worsen conditions that cause microhematuria, such as bladder cancer.
Observation and Monitoring: In some instances, doctors may opt to observe and monitor the condition to see if it resolves on its own. This is usually the case when the underlying cause of microhematuria is not clear, or the condition is mild and not associated with other symptoms.
Surgery: If the underlying cause of microhematuria is severe, surgery may be necessary. Surgery is also advised to remove kidney stones or treat bladder cancer.
Conclusion
To summarize, microhematuria should not be taken lightly because it can be a sign of primary medical conditions like kidney stones, urinary tract infections, or bladder cancer. While some cases may be harmless, it's important to seek medical advice if someone notices blood in your urine. Early detection and diagnosis can improve treatment outcomes and prognosis. Routine check-ups can help detect and manage any conditions causing microhematuria. Being aware of changes in your urinary system and seeking prompt medical attention is essential for good health and the prevention of complications.
