Persistent Hematuria in Women After Taking BPH Medication: Causes and Concerns

Q: Persistent Hematuria in Women After Taking BPH Medication: Causes and Concerns

Hello： It is likely not caused by medication, but rather by the passage of kidney stones. <br>Medications for benign prostatic hyperplasia can help facilitate the expulsion of stones near the bladder, which is why some doctors may prescribe them. <br>Hematuria may also be caused

Women experiencing persistent hematuria after taking medication for benign prostatic hyperplasia?

I am a female with a 1 cm kidney stone, and in mid-June of this year, I underwent extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy at a hospital.
After one week, I returned for a follow-up appointment, and the urine test showed microscopic hematuria.
The doctor prescribed medication for benign prostatic hyperplasia.
Since the first day of taking this medication, I have experienced discomfort at the urethral opening and visible hematuria.
After five days of taking the medication, due to daily occurrences of hematuria and persistent urethral discomfort, I stopped taking the medication.
However, five days later, the aforementioned symptoms are still ongoing.
What could be the issue?

mǎrì, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/07/09

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology

Hello: It is likely not caused by medication, but rather by the passage of kidney stones.
Medications for benign prostatic hyperplasia can help facilitate the expulsion of stones near the bladder, which is why some doctors may prescribe them.
Hematuria may also be caused by stone passage, so you should inform your doctor during your follow-up visit that you still have blood in your urine.
If you experience fever or severe flank pain, you should return for an earlier consultation.
Take care of your health.

Reply Date: 2018/07/09

More Info

Persistent hematuria, or blood in the urine, can be a concerning symptom, especially following the administration of medications for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) in women. While BPH medications are primarily designed for men, they can sometimes be prescribed to women for various urinary symptoms, although this is less common. The presence of hematuria after starting such medications raises several important considerations.

Firstly, it is essential to understand the potential causes of hematuria in your situation. After undergoing extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) for a kidney stone, it is not unusual to experience some degree of hematuria. This can occur due to irritation or trauma to the urinary tract during the procedure. However, if the hematuria persists or worsens after starting a new medication, it is crucial to investigate further.

The discomfort you are experiencing at the urethral opening could be a side effect of the BPH medication. Common side effects of these medications include urinary urgency, frequency, and discomfort. However, the presence of visible blood in the urine is not a typical side effect and should be taken seriously. It is possible that the medication may have exacerbated an underlying condition or caused irritation in the urinary tract.

Given that you have already stopped taking the medication and the symptoms have persisted for an additional five days, it is advisable to seek further medical evaluation. Persistent hematuria can be caused by various factors, including:
1. Residual Effects from ESWL: The procedure may have caused some trauma that takes time to heal, leading to ongoing bleeding.

2. Urinary Tract Infection (UTI): UTIs can cause hematuria and discomfort. Symptoms may include burning during urination, increased frequency, and urgency.

3. Bladder or Kidney Issues: Conditions such as bladder stones, tumors, or other structural abnormalities can lead to hematuria.

4. Medication Side Effects: As mentioned, while BPH medications are not typically associated with hematuria, individual reactions can vary, and it is essential to rule out any adverse effects.

5. Coagulation Disorders: If there are underlying issues with blood clotting, this could also contribute to hematuria.

In light of these possibilities, it is crucial to return to your healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation. They may recommend a urinalysis to check for signs of infection, additional imaging studies to assess the urinary tract, or even a cystoscopy to visualize the bladder directly.

In summary, persistent hematuria after taking BPH medication warrants prompt medical attention. It is essential to communicate all your symptoms and the timeline of events to your healthcare provider, as this information will aid in diagnosing the underlying cause and determining the appropriate treatment. Do not hesitate to seek care, as early intervention can prevent potential complications and provide peace of mind.

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