By Dr. Muruganandham K , Urology
The medical condition characterized by the presence of blood in urine is known as Hematuria. The kidneys and other organs in the urinary system (such as the urinary bladder, the ureter or the urethra) malfunction and cause blood cells to leak into the urine. So, this is primarily a symptom of other medical disorders which include the following-
1. Infection in the Urinary Tract: Urinary tract infections or UTIs are caused by bacteria which multiply in the urinary bladder after entering the body through the urethra. The associated symptoms of the condition, along with bloody urine are frequent need to urinate, painful urination and odorous discharge.
2. Kidney Stones: Stones in the kidney or in the gall bladder can cause mild to severe bleeding which is
discharged with urine. This disorder usually does not cause pain till there are serious complications. So, it is best if the condition of urine in blood in checked out by a doctor immediately.
3. Cancer in the Kidney, Prostate or Bladder: Growth of cancerous cells or tumors leads to internal bleeding. However, hematuria only presents itself in the later stages of cancer.
4. Side-effects of Medication: Blood-thinners or anti-coagulants often cause bleeding and the blood is released with urine. Cyclophosphamide and penicillin may also cause hematuria in rare cases.
5. Disorders of the Prostate Gland: The prostate gland may enlarge with advancing age and this creates undue pressure on the urinary tract. This blocked flow of urine may result in the presence of blood in urine.
6. Over Exertion or Excessive Physical Activity: This possible cause of hematuria is not often observed to be the contributing factor of the condition. However, dehydration, injury in the abdominal organs and malfunctioning of red blood cells cause hematuria.
7. Hereditary Diseases: Inherited diseases like sickle cell anemia, development of cysts and kidney diseases may show the symptom of blood in urine.
