​Haematuria

​Haematuria is the appearance of blood in the urine. Haematuria is not a disease in itself, but it may indicate an abnormality in your urinary system.

Normally, the kidneys are responsible for preventing blood from seeping into your urinary tract and showing up in the urine. Hence haematuria might indicate kidney-related issues such as kidney stones, kidney inflammation (glomerulonephritis), inherited kidney disorders (alport syndrome or sickle cell anaemia) or bacterial kidney infection. Kidney stones are usually common among middle-aged patients and might be a problem if they end up obstructing the urinary tract. Inflammation and kidney infections usually affect the filtering ability of the kidneys, hence allowing blood leakage into the urine. 

There could be non-kidney related sources for haematuria as well. These may include an enlarged prostate (resulting in excess pressure on the urinary tract), kidney injury, rigorous physical workout and medications which cause the bladder to bleed.

The primary indication of haematuria is discolored urine. However, additional symptoms may include:

  • Frequent Urination: Increased urge to urinate.
  • Painful Urination: Burning sensation during urination.
  • Abdominal or Flank Pain: Pain in the lower abdomen or sides, which may suggest kidney or ureter involvement.

In some cases, haematuria may occur without noticeable symptoms, making routine medical checkups essential for early detection.​

Consult our Urology or Nephrology experts if you experience:

  • Visible Blood in Urine: Even a single episode warrants evaluation.
  • Persistent Microscopic Haematuria: Found during routine tests without an apparent cause.
  • Associated Symptoms: Such as pain, fever, or unexplained weight loss.

Early diagnosis is essential to determine the underlying cause and initiate appropriate treatment.​​

Your time with your doctor may be limited, so make sure to prepare for your visit beforehand. Here are some tips to help get you started.​

To diagnose haematuria, healthcare providers may recommend:

  • Urinalysis: Laboratory testing to detect blood, infection, and other abnormalities.
  • Imaging Tests: Such as ultrasound, CT scans, or MRIs to visualize the urinary tract.
  • Cystoscopy: A procedure using a thin camera to examine the bladder and urethra.
  • Blood Tests: To assess kidney function and detect possible underlying conditions.
These tests help in identifying the cause and guiding appropriate treatment.

Treatment for haematuria focuses on addressing the underlying cause and may include:

  • Antibiotics: To treat urinary tract infections.
  • Medications: For managing an enlarged prostate or controlling kidney conditions.
  • Procedures: Removal of kidney stones through non-invasive or surgical methods.
  • Cancer Treatment: In cases of bladder or kidney cancer, treatment options include surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy.

If no specific cause is identified, routine monitoring may be recommended.​

The Aga Khan University Hospital offers financial assistance to those who are in need and fulfil the eligibility criteria. For further information, you can contact the Patient Welfare Department. You can find the contact number of the Patient Welfare Department in the 'Numbers' section on the website homepage.

The financial counselling staff is available during office hours, at the main PBSD (Patient Business Services Department), to answer your financial queries on treatment costs and authorise admissions on partial deposit as per hospital policies. The financial counsellor in the emergency room is open 24/7. You can find the contact number of the Patient Business Services in the 'Numbers' section on the website homepage.​

Your doctor or nurse will provide specific instructions regarding any prescribed medications. It is essential to follow their guidance carefully. Self-prescribing or altering medication without professional advice can be harmful. Inform your healthcare provider of any past adverse reactions to medications. If you experience symptoms of drug poisoning, overdose, or a severe reaction, contact the Pharmacy Services at The Aga Khan University Hospital immediately. 
The contact number is listed in the 'Numbers' section on the hospital's homepage.​
​
The information provided on our website is for educational purposes and not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. You should always seek the advice of your doctor or other healthcare professional provider. ​