What does it mean if there is occult blood in a urine test?
Sep 24, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Cao Zhiqiang
Introduction
In general, the presence of occult blood in urine may be caused by intense physical exercise, menstruation, cold stimulation, kidney stones, glomerulonephritis, etc. It is important to maintain a balanced diet, avoid excessive fatigue, practice good personal hygiene, change underwear regularly, and have routine medical checkups to promptly detect and address any abnormalities in the urinary system. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly.
Under normal circumstances, the presence of occult blood in urine tests may be caused by intense physical exercise, menstruation, cold stimulation, kidney stones, glomerulonephritis, and other factors. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly. The specific analysis is as follows:
1. Intense Exercise
High-intensity physical activity may temporarily damage the glomerular filtration membrane, leading to an increased number of red blood cells in the urine, which appears as occult blood in urinalysis. Reducing exercise intensity appropriately and allowing sufficient rest can help.
2. Menstruation
During the menstrual cycle, pelvic organs become congested in women, which may allow blood to enter the urine, resulting in occult blood detected in urine tests. It is important to maintain good personal hygiene, change underwear frequently, and choose breathable cotton underwear.
3. Cold Stimulation
In cold environments, the body constricts blood vessels to maintain body temperature, potentially affecting blood supply to the kidneys and causing red blood cells to leak into the urine, resulting in occult blood in urinalysis. Stay warm and avoid prolonged exposure to cold conditions.
4. Kidney Stones
Kidney stones are associated with reduced urine volume and metabolic abnormalities. As stones move, they may rub against the urinary tract epithelium, causing local inflammation and bleeding. Red blood cells then pass into the urine, leading to occult blood in urinalysis, possibly accompanied by symptoms such as flank pain or abdominal pain. Patients are advised to follow medical guidance in using medications such as Shenshitong granules, sodium bicarbonate tablets, and allopurinol tablets to relieve symptoms.
5. Glomerulonephritis
Glomerulonephritis is usually caused by genetic factors, infections, and other conditions. The inflammatory response increases the permeability of the glomerular filtration membrane, allowing red blood cells to leak into the urine, resulting in hematuria. This may also be accompanied by symptoms such as edema and decreased urine output. Under a doctor's supervision, patients may use medications such as prednisolone tablets, cyclophosphamide tablets, and benazepril hydrochloride tablets for treatment.
In daily life, it is important to maintain a balanced diet, avoid excessive fatigue, practice good personal hygiene, and undergo regular health check-ups to detect and manage any abnormalities in the urinary system promptly.
