Haematuria
Although there are many potential causes for blood in the urine, those most often identified are:
- bladder infection
- cancers of the bladder, kidney or prostate
- stones in the kidneys or bladder
- inflammation of the kidneys (nephritis)
- urinary tract injuries
- blood disorders (e.g., sickle cell disease, clotting disorders, anticoagulant and anti- platelet drugs)
- other causes, including less common infections (e.g.TB, schistosomiasis)
Your GP will arrange a referral to the Haematuria Clinic if:
- you are over the age of 45 years, and have visible blood in the urine in the absence of infection
- the blood fails to clear following antibotic treatment for urinary infection
- you have non-visible bleeding but significant urinary symptoms
- you have non-visible bleeding, and you are over the age of 60 years with a high white blood count on a blood sample of discomfort when you are passing urine
This will involve:
- Detailing questionning about your urinary tract and any related symptoms
- A physical examination (including rectal or vaginal examination)
- Blood tests (if not already performed by GP)
- Examination of the urine for blood cells
- X-rays or scans including, CT Scan (may involve an iodine-based injection; you must inform staff if you have a history of allergy to iodine or to previous x-ray injections), Ultrasound, or Intravenous urogram (IVU) (may involve an iodine-based injection: see allergy advice above)
- A flexible cystoscopy - A flexible telescope which allows the consultant to see inside your bladder