Blood in Urine (Hematuria): When to Seek Urgent Medical Attention

What Is Urine Blood (Hematuria)?

Urine in blood (hematuria) is when red blood cells are present in your pee. It can be visible to the naked eye or only detectable under a microscope or with urine tests, and it often turns the toilet water red or pink. Or, you may see spots of blood in the water after urinating. In Singapore, about 2-3% of adults experience hematuria at some point in their lives.

It’s crucial to note that hematuria is not a diagnosis but a symptom. If you spot blood in your pee, don’t panic. Book an appointment with us at Nuffield Kidney & Dialysis straight away for a proper check-up. Early detection can lead to better outcomes, especially if there’s an underlying condition.

Remember, your health is precious. Don’t ignore any unusual changes in your body.

How Do the Kidneys Work?

Your kidneys are amazing organs that clean your blood. They’re about the size of your fist and sit near your back.

Every day, your kidneys filter about 190 litres of blood through tiny filters called glomeruli, removing waste and extra water to produce urine. The cleaned blood returns to your body while the waste and extra water become pee, which flows through tubes called ureters to your bladder.

Your kidneys also do other important jobs:

  • Control blood pressure
  • Make hormones
  • Keep bones strong
  • Make red blood cells

When your bladder is full, you feel the need to pee. Then the pee leaves your body through your urethra (tube that carries urine out of the body). However, if blood appears in your urine, it could signal an issue with the kidneys or other parts of the urinary tract, prompting a need for medical evaluation to ensure your kidneys continue to function effectively and maintain your overall health.

Urine In Blood Symptoms

  • Painful urination: YIt might feel like you’re peeing razor blades. This could present itself as a sharp, burning sting every time you try to pee, making every trip to the bathroom a burden.
  • Strong urge to pee:You might dash to the loo every few minutes, even if not much comes out.
  • Lower belly pain: It could feel like a persistent, dull ache weighing you down or a sudden, sharp stabbing pain that may stop you in your tracks.
  • Back pain:You might feel a nagging discomfort in your lower back, as if you’ve been carrying a heavy load all day.
  • Fever:You might feel hot and shivery, leaving you achy and exhausted, like you’ve got the flu.
  • Nausea:Your tummy might feel queasy, as if you’ve eaten something dodgy.
  • Fatigue: You might feel completely drained, struggling to get through the day even after a full night’s sleep.
  • High blood pressure:Your doctor might notice this during a check-up.
  • Swelling:Your face or hands might look puffier than usual, as if you’ve cried yourself to sleep.

Remember, blood in your urine isn’t always visible. Sometimes it’s only detected in tests. That’s why regular check-ups are important, even if you feel fine.

If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s best to see a kidney specialist. At Nuffield Kidney & Dialysis, we are here to help you figure out what’s causing the blood in your pee and get you sorted. We provide expert and compassionate kidney care and utilise advanced technology to ensure early detection of hematuria symptoms and treat kidney conditions effectively.

What Does Blood In Urine Look Like?

Here’s what to watch for:

  • Pink or light red urine
  • Bright red urine
  • Cola or tea-coloured urine
  • Rusty brown urine

It’s important to know that even a tiny amount of blood can cause a noticeable colour change. Your pee might look different throughout the day or change from one day to the next.

You might see dark, jelly-like blood clots in your pee. However, not all reddish urine indicates blood. Other possible causes of having “red” urine but not due to hematuria, such as foods like beetroot, taking new medication, as some medicines can turn pee to red or brown, rectal bleeding, and a woman’s period.

If you notice any unusual changes in the color of your pee, it’s best to consult your kidney specialist to rule out any other symptoms and get to the bottom of what you are experiencing in your body. Your health should be a priority and any discomfort should not be ignored. Contact us at Nuffield Kidney & Dialysis, and we’ll get you started with your personalised kidney treatment today.

When To Contact A Kidney Specialist For Blood In Urine

If you see blood in your urine, try not to panic, but it’s important to get it checked out. Your GP might send you to a kidney specialist if the blood doesn’t go away or if you have other symptoms.

See your GP right away if:

  • You can see blood in your pee
  • You have pain when peeing
  • You need to pee more often
  • You’ve lost weight without trying
  • You feel a sudden need to pee
  • You have a fever, feel sick, or have pain in your tummy or back
    • Shaking chills
    • Vomiting
  • You can’t pee at all
  • You pass blood clots in your pee
  • Discomfort with urination
  • Pain during sexual intercourse or heavy menstrual bleeding that may indicate a problem related to the reproductive system
  • Urine dribbling
  • Nighttime urination

Your GP might refer you to a kidney specialist if:

  • Blood in your pee keeps coming back
  • You have high blood pressure
  • Your kidney tests are not normal
  • You have protein in your pee

If these symptoms persist for more than a few days, it’s essential to consult a kidney specialist to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate care. A kidney specialist can do more tests to find out what’s causing the blood. They might do a scan of your kidneys or look inside your bladder with a small camera.

Don’t ignore blood in your pee, even if it goes away. It could be a sign of something serious. It’s stressful and painful to have a kidney problem and our team of professionals are here to help you. If you or a loved one experiences any of these symptoms or signs, don’t wait before it’s too late, book your appointment with Nuffield Kidney & Dialysis.

Blood In Urine Causes

Blood in your urine can stem from various issues in your urinary system. The causes may differ between men and women due to anatomical differences (variations in body structure between individuals or species).

Blood Urine Female

Urinary tract infections (UTIs):

A common cause of blood in urine for women,these infections can affect your bladder, urethra, or kidneys. You might also experience a burning sensation when you pee and a frequent urge to go.

Cystitis :

Inflammation in the bladder or cystitis is caused by bacterial infection which occurs when bacteria from the perineum, or the area between the vagina or penis and rectum, enters the urethra and reaches the bladder.

Urethritis :

When the urethra (the tube that carries urine from the bladder) gets inflamed often due to bacterial infection, most commonly a sexually transmitted infection (STI).

Kidney stones :

These are small, hard deposits formed in your kidneys that can cause severe pain as they pass and lead to blood in your pee. Can lead to blood in your pee. If you have kidney stones, you might notice pink, red, or brown urine.

Endometriosis:

If you have endometriosis, the uterine tissue (tissue that lines the inside of the uterus) grows outside your womb, causing blood in your urine. This typically happens during your period, which usually comes with excruciating pelvic pain and a heavy period flow.

Menstruation :

Can sometimes cause blood to appear in your urine sample. This isn’t true blood in urine but can be mistaken for it. It’s important to let your doctor know if you’re on your period when giving a sample.

Sexual intercourse :

For women, sexual intercourse can also cause minor bleeding sometimes. While this is usually harmless, this should not be ignored and get checked if it happens often.

If there is no structural or anatomical problem with your kidneys, urinary tract, prostate, or genitals, your health care provider may check to see if you have a bleeding disorder. Causes may include:

  • Bleeding disorders (such as hemophilia)
  • Blood clot in the kidneys
  • Blood thinning medicines (such as aspirin or warfarin)
  • Sickle cell anemia/disease
  • Thrombocytopenia (low numbers of platelets)

Blood that looks like it is in the urine may actually be coming from other sources, such as:

  • The vagina (in women)
  • Ejaculation, often due to a prostate problem (in men)
  • A bowel movement

Blood in Urine Male

An enlarged prostate, or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) :

An enlarged prostate or BPH is a common cause of blood in urine in older men. This can put pressure on your urethra, leading to blood in your pee. You might also have trouble starting to pee or a weak urine stream.

Prostate cancer :

As you age, your prostate can enlarge. This is also a common cause of blood in your urine that, while often painless, can be an early sign that you have to watch out for. Experiencing lower back pain and difficulty peeing are also some of its symptoms.

Kidney or bladder stones :

If you have kidney or bladder stones, your pee can appear as pink, red, or brown in colour and these can be quite painful as they pass through your urinary system (the body system that produces and removes urine).

Kidney disease :

This might be due to conditions like chronic glomerulonephritis (damage in the tiny filters in the kidneys), which often occurs in young men who also have hearing and vision loss, or polycystic kidney disease (when clusters of cysts grow in the kidneys). Other symptoms might include swelling in your legs and feet.

Blood in Urine in Children

It’s important to note that hematuria can also be present in children and one of the possible causes other than UTIs, kidney stones, and trauma, is when they are born with structural abnormalities to the kidneys or urinary tract. If you notice any changes in the colour of your child’s urine, especially over an extended period, seek medical help right away to identify the underlying cause and map out the appropriate treatment for your child.

When To Contact A Kidney Specialist For Blood In Urine

  • Age: As you age, the risk of having kidney and bladder problems, like hematuria, increases. The risk of some cancers that can cause blood in urine may also rise after the age of 50.
  • Family History : Genetics also play a big role. If kidney problems run in your family, there’s a greater risk you’ll also get one.
  • Medications : If you’re under medications, such as pain relievers, blood thinners, or penicillin, they may cause blood in your urine over time.
  • Smoking : If you smoke, your urinary system can get damaged, increasing the risk of blood in urine. We encourage you to get a healthier lifestyle by refraining from smoking or vaping that can cause other serious health problems.
  • Chemical Exposure : Heavy exposure to chemicals, such as dyes or metals, can raise the risk of having blood in your urine.
  • Radiation Exposure : Exposure to radiation due to past treatments or at the workplace can affect your kidney and cause blood urine.
  • Physical Activity : Intense exercises, like long-distance running or jogging, can sometimes cause temporary blood in urine.
  • Urinary Tract Infections : More commonly experienced by women, urinary tract infections can cause the urine to appear pink, red, or cola-coloured.
  • Vigorous sexual activity : While blood inuring due to this is not a cause for worry, this is still worth mentioning to your doctor to make sure that this is nothing serious.

Types of Hematuria

Microscopic Hematuria

Microscopic hematuria is when blood cells are present in urine but cannot be seen with the naked eye. You won't notice any change in your urine's colour and . O only a urine test can detect this type.

Kidney specialists often find microscopic hematuria during routine check-ups. It can be a sign of various conditions, from minor infections to more serious issues but . S sometimes, it may not indicate any problem at all.

If you have microscopic hematuria, your doctor might ask for more tests. These could include blood tests, imaging scans, or a cystoscopy to look inside your bladder.

Gross Hematuria

Gross hematuria is when you can see blood in your urine, which may appear pink, red, or cola-colored. This noticeable type often raises more concern, and the amount of blood can vary from just a few drops to enough to turn the toilet water red. Gross hematuria can come and go, or it might be constant.

Mostly, this type of hematuria does not cause any pain or symptoms but a bladder or back pain can be experienced if you have blood clots in your urine. It is concerning if there are several blood clots found in your urine, and the blood becomes thick enough to where you can't see through it. Blood clots can be very painful once they pass through every time you pee and they can even block the flow of urine.

Dipstick Hematuria

Dipstick hematuria refers to blood detected by a urine dipstick test when oxidation of a urine test strip causes a color change. This test uses a special strip that changes colour when it comes into contact with blood in urine.

This is a quick test that can detect even a small amount of blood in your urine. In most cases, your kidney specialist might use this test during a routine check-up or if you notice any symptoms.

However, a positive dipstick test doesn't always mean you have hematuria. False positives can happen due to certain foods, medicines, or intense exercise. More tests may be advised by your doctor to find the cause and ensure more accurate results.

Think you have hematuria? Don’t let good health slip away from your hands and book your consultation today. Here are Nuffield Kidney & Dialysis, we tailor our treatments to fit not just your condition but also your savings. Start healing today!

When To Contact A Kidney Specialist For Blood In Urine

  • Urinalysis: This is a quick and simple test that checks for blood cells and other substances in your pee, helping your doctor pinpoint what exactly might be going on.
  • Antinuclear antibody test: Draws blood from inside your elbow to check for the presence of antinuclear antibodies (ANA) in your blood. ANA are antibodies that attack the body’s own healthy cells, rather than foreign substances like viruses and bacteria.
  • Complete blood count (CBC) with platelet count: Measures the number of platelets in your blood and also includes other blood cell counts, such as red blood cells and white blood cells, and hemoglobin (a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen) and hematocrit levels (the percentage of red blood cells in your blood).
  • Strep test: Also known as a throat culture, uses a throat swab to detect bacteria called group A streptococcus that can cause infections, such as pneumonia and abscesses.
  • Sickle cell test: A blood sample will be taken to detect if you have sickle cell disease by looking for any abnormal hemoglobin in your blood.
  • Bleeding disorder tests: In addition to sickle cell tests, tests for bleeding disorders are also recommended to catch any conditions that affect the blood’s ability to clot properly.
  • Blood tests: Evaluates your kidney function and checks via blood creatinine level for other potential health concerns that might be causing blood in your urine.
  • Physical exam: Your doctor may gently feel your belly and ask about your symptoms to plan tests suitable for our condition.
  • Imaging tests: These tests will take pictures of your urinary system to assess your symptoms.
    • Abdmonial ultrasound: Uses sound waves to create a clear picture of your kidneys and bladder.
    • CT scan: A CT scan or computed tomography scan identifies any hidden issues in your urinary tract by giving detailed cross section pictures.
    • MRI scan: A non-invasive medical imaging test, an MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) utilises magnets and radio waves to create clear images of almost every internal structure in the human body, including your organs.
  • Cystoscopy: Your doctor will use a thin, flexible tube with a camera called a cystoscope to look inside your bladder to give them a close-up view.
  • Kidney biopsy: A small bit of kidney tissue is taken to check for problems that affect the kidney’s function.
  • 24-hour urine collection: This test involves collecting your pee over a full day to measure any substances present in your pee.
  • Urine cytology: This examines your pee under a microscope to detect any abnormal or cancerous cells.
  • Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test: A test specifically for men, this checks if they have prostate issues that can be causing the blood in their urine.

The chosen test of your kidney specialist can be based on the symptoms you’re experiencing as well as your health history.

Take control of your kidney health today. Contact us at Nuffield Kidney & Dialysis and we’ll assist you to find the most optimal and personalised treatment plan for you.

Blood in Urine Treatments

Antibiotics :

Your doctor may prescribe these if you have a bacterial infection causing blood in your urine. Be sure to take the full course as directed by your doctor, even if you start to feel better, so the infection can be completely cleared and no additional treatments have to be administered.

Sickle cell diseases treatment :

This test uses disease-modifying agents such as hydroxyurea, pain medications, and drugs to prevent blood cells from dying or forming into sickles.

Stone-breaking procedures :

If kidney or bladder stones are the culprit, your doctor might use sound waves to break them into smaller pieces, making it less painful for you to pass the stones. One of these procedures is known as extracorporeal shock wave lithrotripsy (ESWL) that does the job of breaking the stones.

Prostate medication :

For men with an enlarged prostate, your doctor may give you medicine, such as alpha-blockers and 5-alpha-reductase inhibitors to shrink it, putting pressure on your urethra and reducing bleeding.

Kidney disease management :

Depending on the severity, you might need medication, dialysis, or surgery, like kidney transplant.

Cancer treatment :

If cancer is causing blood in your urine, your treatment could range from medication to surgery. Your care team will discuss the best options for you.

Hematuria Treatment Procedure

Before the Procedure

Just before the procedure for hematuria, your doctor will review your medical history and discuss the planned treatment. They will go over the risks and benefits, while making sure that all your questions and concerns don’t go unanswered to help you feel more informed, reassured, and secured throughout the treatment.

Blood and urine tests may be done beforehand to check for any infections or other underlying health issues you might have. Your doctor will also request for imaging tests, like ultrasound and CT scans, to get a clearer picture of your urinary tract’s condition.

If you are taking any medicines, whether that be over-the-counter drugs or any supplements, make sure to inform your doctor as you might need to stop taking certain medicines or fast before the procedure, depending on what’s required by your doctor’s tailored treatment plan.

To have a more comfortable experience before your procedure, it’s best to ask for any special instructions for the day of the procedure, such as what to wear or bring with you.

During the Procedure

Every patient is given a tailored plan based on the results of the rest they’ve done before the procedure and the exact steps will vary based on your treatment.

If you’re dealing with a urinary tract infection, your doctor will likely prescribe antibiotics to clear it up. For kidney stones, they might use sound waves to break these stones into smaller pieces, so it will be easier for you to pass them.

Surgery might be necessary if you have a more complex case. This means removing tumours, fixing any damaged blood vessels, or addressing other serious issues.

There are minimally invasive surgeries that use tiny cameras and tools that will be inserted through small cuts but there are other surgeries that will require larger cuts to address the problem.

To keep you comfortable during the procedure, your doctor will administer local, regional, or general anesthesia, depending on the extent of the surgery.

Procedures can vary in length, lasting anywhere from a few minutes to several hours, depending on the complexity of your treatment. We assure you that our team will take good care of you through every step to ensure that you feel safe and well taken care of.

After the Procedure

So the procedure is done, now it’s time to monitor for any complications. During this period, it’s normal to feel sore or tired due to the procedure done and the medications you were administered with.

Yoru doctor will give you specific instructions for recovery at home, which includes taking pain medicine, keeping yourself hydrated by drinking a lot of water, and avoiding certain activities that require you to exert a significant force or effort, like lifting or exercising.

Follow-up appointments are important to check your progress and avoid any complications that may arise after the treatment, so make sure you don’t miss them. After the treatment, your doctor may also do more tests to ensure the treatment worked.

It’s also important to stay alert if you notice any worrying symptoms like fever or increased bleeding, if this happens, get in touch with your doctor right away.

Take all the time you need to heal and fully recover from the treatment and remember that recovery time varies. For simple treatments, you might feel better in a day or two but for more complex procedures, it could take weeks or months to fully recover.

Yoru doctor will let you know during follow-up check ups whether you’ve recovered enough to return to normal activities.

Urine in Blood Complications

Worsening Health Problems :

Ignoring blood in urine can worsen other underlying health issues, potentially leading to more serious health problems that require more extensive and expensive treatments.

Kidney Damage:

If you leave blood in urine untreated, it could harm your kidney, which eventually won’t be able to filter waste properly, affecting your overall health.

Bladder or Kidney Stones :

Stones may grow larger without treatment, causing severe pain and potentially blocking urine flow.

Kidney Infection :

What first was a simple urinary tract infection could spread to your kidneys and lead to pyelonephritis or a serious kidney infection.

Cancer Risk :

Blood in urine can also be an early warning sign of bladder, kidney, or prostate cancer. If you delay its diagnosis or treatment, it could allow the cancer to progress.

Anaemia :

Ongoing blood loss through urine can cause anaemia, leading to fatigue and weakness.

Being proactive in your health by seeking prompt medical attention is essential to diagnose the cause of blood in your urine and prevent any potential complications. Nothing beats early detection and intervention to protect your overall health and give yourself and family peace of mind.

Kidney Stones Causes

Initial Consultation SGD $100 – SGD $250
Diagnostic Tests

  • Urinalysis SGD $50 – SGD $150
  • Urine Culture SGD $80 – SGD $200
  • Blood Tests SGD $100 – SGD $300
  • Ultrasound: SGD $200 – SGD $500
  • CT Scan: SGD $800 – SGD $2,000
  • MRI: SGD $1,500 – SGD $3,000
  • Cystoscopy SGD $1,000 – SGD $3,000

Treatment Costs

  • Antibiotics: SGD $50 – SGD $200
  • Stone-breaking procedures: SGD $2,000 – SGD $7,000
  • Prostate medication: SGD $30 – SGD $300

Kidney disease management:

  • Medication: SGD $50 – SGD $500
  • Dialysis: SGD $2,000 – SGD $3,000 per session
  • Surgery: SGD $15,000 – SGD $70,0

Cancer treatment:

  • Medication: SGD $1,000 – SGD $10,000
  • Surgery: SGD $15,000 – SGD $100,000

Remember, these numbers are only estimates, and your actual costs may vary depending on your specific condition and the healthcare provider you choose.

In Singapore, there are many health insurance plans that cover some or all of these treatments. Your health should alway be a priority regardless of your savings, so it’s always a good idea to consult your insurance provider about coverage for these procedures.

Your finances should not be a burden when it comes to maintaining your optimal health. Book your consultation at Nuffield Kidney & Dialysis today and we’ll give you estimates to help you prepare your finances.

Are There Subsidies for Urine in Blood Treatment in Singapore?

In Singapore, patients with Hematuria can access various subsidies to help with their treatment costs:

Community Health Assist Scheme (CHAS):

CHAS offers financial support for common illnesses at participating clinics, making healthcare more accessible, especially for those with financial concerns.

Pioneer Generation and Merdeka Generation:

Launched to honor pioneers for their contribution to Singapore, cardholders of these packages are eligible for additional subsidies to help cover medical costs.

Insurance Coverage:

Various health insurance can help cover partial or total costs of your treatment. To better understand your insurance coverage, please check with your insurance provider.

Payment Methods:

We strive to make our treatments more accessible to many, that’s why we offer a wide range of payment methods for your convenience. We accept cash, credit cards, and Medisave.

Financial support is a significant factor in getting a healthier life ahead. Explore all your available options through the guidance of your doctor to make sure you get the best of your treatment plans.

Why Choose Nuffield Kidney & Dialysis for Urine in Blood Treatment?

Expert Leadership: Led by Dr. Behram Khan, a Senior Consultant Nephrologist with over 25 years of experience specialising in treating blood in urine, you can trust that you only get expert and personalised treatment. He was trained in the USA and under his belt is a board-certified in Nephrology and Internal Medicine. Accredited by the Singapore Medical Council, he combines his extensive medical and academic background to ensure the best outcomes for patients suffering from renal issues.

Tailored Care: We understand that every patient and their condition is unique, that’s why we tailor every treatment we offer to make sure they are effective and suit every condition best.

Convenient Location: Accessibility plays a crucial role in treating blood in urine, especially during emergency treatments. Located in Wheelock Place, Singapore, our clinic is easily accessible for those in need of prompt intervention.

Choosing the people to work with and help you get better is a big part of your treatment. Our team at Nuffield Kidney & Dialysis are here to make your treatment affordable and comfortable. Our expert kidney care does not end when you step out of our clinic, we’re here to help you throughout your recovery period and even emergency procedures. Book your consultation now, it’s our pleasure to assist you to get a healthier life.Always consult with a healthcare professional to determine the best approach based on your specific circumstances and health condition.

Chronic Hematuria vs. Acute Hematuria

Chronic hematuria refers to the blood in the urine that persists over an extended period. This is often caused by more serious conditions, such as bladder cancer, prostate problems, or a kidney disease. Acute hematuria, on the other hand, is the sudden blood in the urine, which often lasts for a short period only and can be caused by strenuous activities, kidney stones, trauma to the urinary tract due to injury or medical procedures, or urinary tract infections (UTIs).

Preventing Urine In Blood

  • Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day and aim to finish 6-8 glasses daily. This helps flush out your urinary system and prevents infections and stones.
  • Practice good hygiene: Good hygiene is always an important part of being healthy, so make sure you wipe from front to back after using the toilet. Clean your genital area before and after sex to reduce the risk of urinary tract infections.
  • Urinate promptly: To prevent bacteria from growing in your urinary tract, avoid holding your urine for long periods and empty your bladder fully when you go.
  • Watch your diet: Limit salt intake and avoid foods high in oxalates like spinach and rhubarb as . T these can contribute to kidney stone formation.
  • Quit smoking: Smoking increases your risk of bladder cancer, so if you smoke, consider seeking support to quit.
  • Limit chemical exposure: Wear protective gear if you work with chemicals and avoid prolonged contact with hair dyes and solvents. These substances may increase cancer risk.
  • Exercise regularly: Maintain a healthy weight through regular physical activity. This can lower your risk of kidney stones and some cancers.

FAQs

Blood in urine is fairly common. About 1 in 10 people who visit their kidney specialist have this symptom. While this is more common in older adults, it can affect people of all ages.

Yes, blood in urine can be serious. While it’s often not a cause for alarm, it can signal conditions like kidney stones, infections, or even cancer. If you feel any symptoms, always see your doctor to determine the cause and get the right treatment for you.

The best treatment depends on the cause. It may include antibiotics for infections, medication for kidney stones, or specific treatments for underlying conditions. Based on your initial tests, your doctor will determine the right approach to take to conquer your hematuria.

Most urine infections clear up within 3 to 5 days with antibiotics. Without treatment, they can last longer and may lead to more serious problems. Drink plenty of water and follow your doctor’s advice.

Drinking water can help flush out your urinary system, but it won’t stop blood in urine on its own. It may help with mild cases, but you should still see a doctor to find out the cause.

Sometimes, blood in urine can resolve on its own, especially if it’s due to strenuous exercise or minor injuries. But it’s crucial to get checked by a doctor to rule out serious causes.

Several things can cause blood in urine without infection:

  • Kidney or bladder stones
  • Enlarged prostate
  • Certain medications
  • Strenuous exercise
  • Kidney disease
  • Some cancers

Always consult your doctor for a proper diagnosis.

  1. Burning sensation when you pee
  2. Needing to pee more often
  3. Cloudy or strong-smelling urine
  4. Pain in your lower tummy
  5. Feeling tired and unwell

If you have these symptoms, see your GP.

Signs a UTI has spread to your kidneys include:

  • High fever (over 38°C)
  • Pain in your side, back, or groin
  • Shivering and chills
  • Feeling sick or being sick
  • Confusion

Seek medical help right away if you have these symptoms.

Kidney stones usually don’t cause pain when they’re still in the kidney. But if they move into the ureter, you might feel pain in your back below your ribs. The pain can change as the stone moves.

If you suspect a kidney stone, drink plenty of water and seek medical advice. Pain relief may be necessary if discomfort is severe.

Yes, kidney stones can cause kidney disease. If untreated, they can lead to infections, block urine flow, and damage the kidneys, potentially resulting in chronic kidney disease.

No, kidney stones in the kidney often don’t hurt. Pain happens when a stone blocks urine flow.

Yes, children can get kidney stones. Though less common than in adults, the number of cases in children is rising. Causes include diet, genetics, and medical conditions that affect the body’s handling of minerals.

  • Small kidney stones: These can be as tiny as a grain of sand or smaller, typically measuring up to 4 mm in diameter.
  • Large kidney stones:These can grow to several centimetres in diameter, ranging from 5 mm up to more than 1 cm in size.

Yes, kidney stones can often pass on their own, especially if they are small. Drinking plenty of fluids helps move them through the urinary tract and out of the body.

The time it takes to pass kidney stones can vary widely, typically ranging from a few days to several weeks. Small stones may pass on their own within a few days, while larger stones might require weeks and potentially medical intervention to help them pass.

Medications can help with symptoms but don’t dissolve the stone. The main focus of treatment is pain relief and removing the stone.

Regularly consuming large amounts of bubble tea, especially several times a week, can increase the risk of kidney stones due to its high sugar and oxalate levels. Moderation is key.

Medical References

Bidin, Mohammad Zulkarnain, et al. “Blood and urine biomarkers in chronic kidney disease: An update.” Clinica chimica acta 495 (2019): 239-250.

Vedula, Ramya, and Arpana A. Iyengar. “Approach to diagnosis and management of hematuria.” The Indian Journal of Pediatrics 87.8 (2020): 618-624.

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