Blood in urine, also known as hematuria, is a condition where blood cells are present in urine. It is not a normal finding and can be a sign of various underlying health issues. Blood in urine can be classified into two types: gross hematuria, which is visible to the naked eye, and microscopic hematuria, which is only detectable under a microscope. The presence of blood in the urine is typically measured through urinalysis, often expressed as the number of red blood cells (RBCs) per high-power field (HPF).
Under normal circumstances, urine does not contain blood. Its presence is usually an indicator of an abnormal process occurring somewhere along the urinary tract, which includes the kidneys, bladder, ureters, and urethra. Blood in urine itself doesn't have a function in our bodies, but detecting it serves as a crucial indicator for further investigation and diagnosis of potential disorders. The urinary system is responsible for filtering waste and extra water from the bloodstream to form urine, a process where blood should be present only in the form of waste products, not as intact red blood cells.
Having blood in your urine can be alarming and usually prompts a medical consultation to determine the underlying cause. Possible causes of hematuria include infections (such as urinary tract infections or UTIs), kidney stones, kidney infections, or more serious conditions such as bladder or kidney cancer. If blood in urine is detected, it is crucial to follow up with a healthcare provider to perform further tests like imaging studies or blood tests to identify the cause. Untreated, the underlying condition causing the hematuria can lead to more severe health issues.
Ideally, the urine should have no visible blood and should contain less than three red blood cells per high-power field in a microscopic examination. If blood is detected, improving this condition largely depends on treating the underlying cause. For instance, increasing fluid intake can help reduce the risk of kidney stones, a common cause of hematuria. Practicing good hygiene and staying hydrated can help prevent urinary tract infections. It's also essential to regularly monitor your urinary health, especially if you've experienced hematuria in the past or have a family history of related conditions.
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