Understanding Blood in Urine: Hematuria and Hemoglobinuria - Causes & What to Do

Question
Dear Samantha,
i was prescribed nu cotrimox for bladder infection when my doctor's assistant found blood in my urine with dipstick method.
after 2 weeks the dipsticks still show that i have hemoglobin in my urine. The clor is somewhat darker than 1+ ca. 10 but not as dark as 2+ ca. 25. should i be concerned. there is nothing else except blood. all other values are normal.
thank you

Answer
Hi Jaya.  Blood in the urine is called hematuria or hemoglobinuria.  Numerous diseases of the kidney and urinary tract, as well as trauma, medications, smoking, or strenuous exercise can cause hematuria or hemoglobinuria.  This test cannot determine the severity of disease nor be used to identify where the blood is coming from. For instance, contamination of urine with blood from hemorrhoids or vaginal bleeding cannot be distinguished from a bleed in the urinary tract. It's important that you check with your doctor, you may need further tests to determine the cause (if any) for the blood in your urine.  Hope this helps.  Good luck.

Samantha