Hematuria

Alexandria Urology Associates

Urologists located in Alexandria, LA & Oakdale, LA

Finding blood in your urine (hematuria) can be stressful, but there are a number of possible explanations. At Alexandria Urology Associates in Alexandria and Oakdale, Louisiana, James Richey, MD, and Lance Templeton, MD, offer state-of-the-art diagnostic technology to determine the reason for hematuria. Schedule your diagnostic exam today by calling the office or using the easy online booking tool.

Hematuria Q & A

What is hematuria?

Hematuria is blood found in your urine. Gross hematuria is when you can see the blood, and microscopic hematuria is when the amount of blood is too little to see.

In most cases, the condition isn’t linked to a serious health issue. However, blood in your urine should always be checked out by a skilled medical professional.

What causes hematuria?

Hematuria occurs when your kidneys allow blood cells to enter your urine. Several issues can lead to this condition, including:

Urinary tract infections
Bladder or kidney stones
Kidney disease
Enlarged prostate
Advanced prostate, bladder, or kidney cancer
Inherited diseases like sickle cell anemia
Certain medications
Kidney infections or injuries

Even something as simple as strenuous exercise can cause hematuria.

How is hematuria diagnosed?

The team at Alexandria Urology Associates has numerous tools it can use to determine the cause of hematuria.

A comprehensive physical exam is the first step and includes a discussion of your personal and family health history. You may be asked about exposure to chemicals in your workplace, your history of radiation therapy, if you smoke, and if you have other health issues or are taking any medications.

Urine screening looks for red blood cells in your urine. This test can also detect signs of an infection or kidney stones.

Imaging tests like a CT scan, ultrasound, or MRI can look for tissue abnormalities. A procedure called cystoscopy uses a tube equipped with a light and camera to gather real-time images of the interior of your bladder and urethra.

Based on the results of these diagnostic tools, your specialist will discuss all the available treatments with you in detail. Treating hematuria focuses on finding and eliminating the root cause of blood in your urine.

Patient education is a foundational principle at Alexandria Urology Associates. You’ll have everything you need to make an informed decision about your care. You are encouraged to ask questions or express concerns at any point in the process.

If you notice blood in your urine, call the office right away to book a diagnostic exam, or use the online scheduling page to set up your visit.

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