Hematuria in Children: Causes, Concerns, and Next Steps - Urology

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Hematuria, or the presence of blood in the urine, can be a concerning symptom for parents, especially when it occurs in young children. Understanding the potential causes, implications, and next steps is crucial for managing this condition effectively.


Causes of Hematuria in Children
1. Infections: One of the most common causes of hematuria in children is a urinary tract infection (UTI). Symptoms may include painful urination, frequent urination, and sometimes fever. Given that your son recently had a throat infection, it’s possible that a UTI could be a secondary infection.

2. Trauma: Any injury to the kidneys or urinary tract can lead to blood in the urine. This could be from a fall or a sports-related injury, though it seems less likely in your case.

3. Kidney Stones: While less common in young children, kidney stones can cause hematuria. They can lead to significant pain and discomfort, often requiring medical intervention.

4. Congenital Abnormalities: Some children may have structural abnormalities in their urinary tract that can lead to hematuria.

5. Systemic Conditions: Conditions such as glomerulonephritis (inflammation of the kidney's filtering units) or other systemic diseases can also manifest as hematuria.

6. Medications: Certain medications can cause hematuria as a side effect, although this is less common.


Concerns and Next Steps
Given that your son has experienced painful urination and has been diagnosed with hematuria, it is essential to monitor his symptoms closely. Here are some steps you can take:
1. Follow-Up Appointments: As advised by the urologist, it is important to return for follow-up testing. This may include repeat urinalysis, urine cultures, or imaging studies like an ultrasound to assess the kidneys and bladder.

2. Symptom Monitoring: Keep a close eye on any additional symptoms, such as fever, increased pain, changes in urination frequency, or any new symptoms. Documenting these can provide valuable information for the healthcare provider.

3. Hydration: Encourage your son to drink plenty of fluids, as this can help flush out the urinary tract and may alleviate some symptoms if a UTI is present.

4. Pain Management: If your son is experiencing pain, consult with your pediatrician about appropriate pain relief options. Over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen may be suitable, but always check with a healthcare provider first.

5. Education: Educate yourself about hematuria and its potential causes. Understanding the condition can help alleviate some anxiety and prepare you for discussions with healthcare providers.


When to Seek Immediate Care
If your son experiences any of the following, seek immediate medical attention:
- Severe abdominal or flank pain
- Persistent vomiting
- High fever (especially if above 101°F or 38.3°C)
- Signs of dehydration (dry mouth, decreased urination)
- Blood clots in the urine or significant changes in urine color

Conclusion
While hematuria can be alarming, many cases in children are benign and resolve with appropriate treatment. Following up with your healthcare provider and monitoring your son’s symptoms will be key in managing this condition. If you have any further concerns or if symptoms worsen, do not hesitate to reach out to your pediatrician or a specialist for guidance.