Dr. Nicholas Franco Explains the Causes and Evaluation of Blood in the Urine (Hematuria)

    FORT LAUDERDALE, FL, November 07, 2024 /24-7PressRelease/ -- Blood in the urine, also known as hematuria, can be alarming for many individuals, but it's important to understand its potential causes and how it's evaluated. Hematuria may either be gross, where blood is visible to the naked eye, or microscopic, detectable only under a microscope. Dr. Nicholas Franco, a retired urologist with an illustrious career across Montreal, New Orleans, and Southwest Florida, discusses the significance of identifying and managing hematuria and the necessary steps for evaluation and treatment.

Understanding Hematuria and Its Types

Hematuria refers to the presence of blood cells in urine, and there are various ways it can manifest. Gross hematuria, Dr. Franco says, occurs when enough blood is present in the urine to turn it pink or bright red, visibly altering its appearance. This can often be detected immediately by the person affected. On the other hand, microscopic hematuria is less obvious, requiring a microscope for detection. Though not always immediately noticeable, both types warrant medical attention as they can signal underlying health issues.

The causes of hematuria are wide-ranging, and Dr. Nicholas Franco stresses that it's important not to ignore any signs of blood in the urine, whether visible or detected through tests. "Early detection is critical in addressing possible underlying conditions, which range from mild infections to more serious issues like kidney disease or cancer," Dr. Franco advises.

Causes of Blood in the Urine

Hematuria, Dr. Nicholas Franco says, can be caused by a variety of conditions. Urinary tract infections (UTIs), he says, are one of the most common causes, especially in women. The infection may cause irritation and inflammation, leading to blood in the urine. Other infections, such as pyelonephritis (a kidney infection), or cystitis (bladder inflammation), can also cause hematuria.

In addition to infections, urinary stone disease, where stones form in the kidneys or bladder, can also lead to blood in the urine due to irritation caused by the stones. "These stones can rub against the delicate lining of the urinary tract, causing bleeding," Dr. Franco explains.

Other conditions contributing to hematuria, Dr. Franco says, include an enlarged prostate in men, particularly in older adults, and more severe conditions like kidney disease, which can impair kidney function. Certain inherited conditions, such as sickle cell disease, also increase the risk of hematuria.

Perhaps more concerning, hematuria can be a sign of cancer in the urinary tract, such as bladder, kidney, ureteral, urethral, or prostate cancer. "While not every instance of blood in the urine signals cancer, it is an important red flag that needs prompt evaluation, especially in individuals with risk factors like smoking or exposure to certain chemicals," Dr. Franco emphasizes.

Evaluating Hematuria: The Diagnostic Process

When evaluating hematuria, healthcare providers will typically start by gathering a medical history and performing a physical examination. Dr. Franco explains that depending on the patient's symptoms, this could involve a pelvic exam or digital rectal exam to get a comprehensive view of potential causes. "The diagnostic process for hematuria is thorough because the underlying cause could range from infections to something more serious," Dr. Franco states.

Urinalysis, which is a test of a urine sample, is often the first step in diagnosing hematuria. If an infection is suspected, a urine culture can help identify the exact bacteria involved. Other diagnostic tests, he says, might include urine cytology, where cells in the urine are examined for abnormalities, or more advanced imaging tests such as ultrasound, CT scans, or MRI scans to get a clearer picture of the kidneys, bladder, and urinary tract.

Additionally, cystoscopy, which involves using a scope to view the inside of the bladder and urethra, he says, may be necessary to identify potential tumors or structural abnormalities that could be causing the bleeding. These diagnostic tools are essential in determining the right course of treatment.

Treatment and Management Options

Treating hematuria depends largely on its cause. If the cause is an infection, he says, antibiotics are often prescribed to clear the infection, which should stop the bleeding. In cases of kidney stones, treatment may include medication to help pass the stones or, in more severe cases, surgery to remove them. For an enlarged prostate, medications such as alpha-blockers or 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors are often used to reduce symptoms.

For more serious conditions like cancer, treatment can range from surgery and radiation to chemotherapy and immunotherapy, depending on the type and stage of the cancer. Dr. Franco notes that early detection of cancer-related hematuria often leads to more favorable outcomes, making prompt evaluation essential.

Prevention and Early Detection

While it's not always possible to prevent hematuria, certain actions can reduce the risk of developing conditions that cause it. Staying well-hydrated, avoiding smoking, and reducing exposure to harmful chemicals, Dr. Nicholas Franco says, are important steps. Additionally, individuals with a family history of kidney or urinary conditions should be vigilant about regular check-ups and screening.

Conclusion

Blood in the urine, whether gross or microscopic, should never be ignored. As Dr. Franco highlights, "It's crucial to consult with a healthcare provider as soon as blood in the urine is detected, regardless of whether or not you're experiencing other symptoms." Early detection and diagnosis, he notes, are key to effectively managing the underlying causes, whether it's a simple infection or something more serious like cancer. With the right evaluation and treatment plan, Dr. Franco concludes, many causes of hematuria can be addressed, ensuring better health outcomes for patients.

To learn more visit: http://nicholasfrancomd.com/

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