What is haematuria?

Haematuria is either visible blood in the urine or blood found on dipstick testing. Apart from a urinary tract infection, visible blood may be a sign of serious pathology in the kidneys, bladder, prostate or urethra. It is therefore important that this is investigated promptly. There is however a significant proportion of men and women in whom no definite cause for the blood is found. Disptick haematura is far less worrying and although this may merit further investigation, the urgency is far less so in comparison to visible haematuria. If you see blood in your urine, see your GP today or talk to us

 

What tests will I need?

You will need to have some blood tests and a urine test which will be arranged by your GP. In the hospital, we will arrange an ultrasound scan of your kidneys and a flexible cystoscopy. In some cases we may need to do a further CT scan. Men will need to have their prostate checked by a blood test (PSA) and a digital examination of the prostate. .

 

When will I get the results?

Once infection is excluded, the commonest causes of visible blood are bladder tumours, kidney tumours and urinary tract stones. In most cases we will tell you at the consultation and be able to reassure you.If you need further scans, this will also be communicated to you clearly.

 

What happens if you find a bladder tumour?

The tumour is removed endoscopically under an anaesthetic by an operation called TURBT. You can read about the operation and what happens after by clicking here.