Hematuria
At Montefiore Einstein Urology, you can access exceptional care for hematuria. As a global leader in urology, we are an academic-based, national and international referral site for the most complex and high-risk cases. For more than a century, we have been at the forefront of innovation, research and clinical care for genitourinary (GU) conditions.
Ranked in the top 1% of all hospitals in the nation for urology according to U.S. News & World Report, Montefiore Einstein continues to make advances in the diagnosis and treatment of GU conditions. Our multidisciplinary team of world-renowned specialists is passionate about uncovering the latest diagnostic approaches and treatments that can improve outcomes.
At Montefiore Einstein Urology, you can expect compassionate, personalized, research-driven treatment plans that meet the highest standards for quality and safety. In addition, we offer patients a full range of support services, from nutritional guidance to rehabilitative therapies.
When you need hematuria care, turn to our dedicated multidisciplinary team for a personalized treatment plan.
Montefiore Einstein offers the following content from the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services.
What Is Hematuria?
Hematuria is the presence of red blood cells in the urine. There are two types of hematuria:
- Gross hematuria: when blood in the urine is visible to the naked eye
- Microscopic hematuria: when blood in the urine can only be seen under a microscope or detected through urinalysis
Causes of Hematuria
Hematuria can have many causes, including:
- Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)
- Endometriosis
- Infection in or inflammation of the bladder, kidney, urethra or prostate
- Physical trauma
- Sexual activity
- Urinary tract stones or a recent urinary tract surgical procedure
- Vigorous exercise
Signs & Symptoms of Hematuria
Gross hematuria can make the urine appear pink, red or brown, as red blood cells cause the urine to change color. In most cases, gross hematuria does not cause pain or other symptoms. However, patients with gross hematuria may experience bladder or back pain if the condition results from blood clots in the urine.
Microscopic hematuria is blood in the urine that's too small to see without a microscope. While it's often asymptomatic, symptoms may include:
- Chills
- Fever
- Foul-smelling urine
- Frequent urination
- Nausea or vomiting
- Pain in the lower back or side (flank pain)
- Pain or burning when urinating
- Stomach pain
- Swelling
Diagnosing Hematuria
Your urine will be tested for the presence of blood. In some cases, your urine will be tested twice to confirm the diagnosis of hematuria. If blood is detected, additional testing includes one or more of the following:
- Blood test: used to detect kidney conditions, autoimmune diseases (e.g. lupus) or other diseases including prostate cancer
- Computed tomography (CT) scan: advanced X-ray technology used to capture images of the urinary tract
- Cystoscopy: a scope placed inside the bladder via the urethra to gain a more thorough picture
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): uses magnets and radio waves to capture images of internal organs, including the bladder or kidney
- Ultrasound: uses sound waves to capture images of internal organs, including the kidneys
Treating Hematuria
In most cases, your physician will approach hematuria by treating its underlying cause. In some patients, when the hematuria is not associated with a serious condition, treatment may not be required.