Blood in Urine for a Month with No Clear Explanation
I am a 38-year-old female who experienced a concerning episode over a year ago, during which I noticed blood in my urine for an entire month. Remarkably, it was not accompanied by any pain. Throughout this month-long ordeal, I underwent two CT scans examining my kidneys and ureters, in addition to numerous urine and blood analyses, as well as a cystoscopy procedure. All results came back completely normal. An ultrasound did reveal that my renal vein was under pressure, leading a urologist to diagnose me with nutcracker syndrome. I thought I had finally found my answer. However, a subsequent venogram conducted by a vascular surgeon contradicted this, indicating that I do not actually have nutcracker syndrome. Now I'm left back at the starting point, pondering the mystery of what could have led to that situation, especially since it has not recurred since then. My curiosity remains as to what caused such an unusual symptom in the first place.
Answers (1)
2/15/2026, 9:10:44 PM
OpenHealth AI
It’s understandable to feel concerned and frustrated after experiencing blood in your urine for an extended period, especially with extensive testing yielding no definitive answers. Here are the main points to consider regarding your situation:
-
Possible Causes: Blood in urine (hematuria) can have multiple causes, ranging from benign to more serious conditions. Since your tests were normal, and you haven’t had a recurrence, it could have been a transient issue. Some potential causes may include:
- Benign Hematuria: Non-threatening conditions like exercise-induced hematuria or irritation from a urinary tract infection (UTI) that you might not have been aware of at the time.
- Underlying Conditions: While your tests are normal, there may still be less common conditions like vascular malformations or intermittent pressure changes in blood vessels that could temporarily affect blood flow.
-
Importance of Follow-Up: Even if the blood in your urine hasn’t returned, it’s key to maintain open communication with your healthcare provider about any new symptoms or changes you experience. You may also want to revisit the topic of routine monitoring to ensure any fluctuations are addressed timely.
Next Steps:
-
Symptom Diary: Keep a record of any changes or symptoms you notice, including frequency, duration, and triggers. This can provide valuable information for any future consultations.
-
Hydration: Ensure you're adequately hydrated, as this can support kidney health and dilute potential irritants in your urinary tract.
-
Regular Check-Ins: Arrange for annual check-ups with your healthcare provider to monitor your urinary health and discuss any lingering concerns or new developments.
-
Lifestyle Factors: Pay attention to any patterns related to diet, exercise, or stress that might correlate with your urinary symptoms; these could potentially offer insights into your health.
-
Seek a Second Opinion: If you're still feeling uneasy and do not feel reassured, consider seeking a second opinion from another urologist. Sometimes, a fresh perspective can illuminate overlooked possibilities.
It’s certainly disconcerting not to have a straightforward answer, but remaining proactive about your health and staying vigilant are important. Trust your instincts, and seek help if you feel uncertain about anything in the future. Remember, you deserve to get clarity and care tailored to your concerns.
Related Questions
Seeking Guidance on Lung Function Results
A 28-year-old woman seeks clarification regarding her recent pulmonary assessments, feeling quite anxious about the findings. The spirometry results indicate a restrictive pattern in lung function. Specifically, her Forced Vital Capacity (FVC) is recorded at 2.64 liters, which represents 74% of the expected value, with a Z-score of -1.86. The Forced Expiratory Volume in one second (FEV1) stands at 2.4 liters, or 78% of the predicted value, and it has a Z-score of -1.52. The FEV1/FVC ratio is measured at 91%, correlating to a Z-score of +0.88. Additionally, there is minimal responsiveness noted after inhaling bronchodilator medication. The tests show significantly reduced lung volumes overall, with a moderate decrease in the Residual Volume to Total Lung Capacity (RV/TLC) ratio. However, the Diffusing Capacity of the Lung for Carbon Monoxide (DLCO) is within normal limits, as is the Fractional Exhaled Nitric Oxide (FeNO) test. In summary, these pulmonary function tests reveal a considerable restriction in lung capacity without any compensatory response to the inhaled bronchodilators, highlighting markedly lower lung volumes alongside normal DLCO and FeNO values.
Elevated Alkaline Phosphatase Levels After Shock
A 35-year-old woman, weighing 240 pounds and standing 5 feet 3 inches tall, has observed an increase in her alkaline phosphatase (alk phos) levels over the past year. This uptick began following a traumatic hypovolemic shock due to hemorrhaging during childbirth, which resulted in the tragic loss of her baby on September 25, 2024. She is questioning the potential link between that harrowing experience and the persistent rise in her alk phos levels. Interestingly, tests conducted have revealed that her alkaline phosphatase fractionation indicates a significant percentage affiliated with intestinal origins, while readings for bone and liver health remain within normal ranges. She seeks opinions and deeper insights regarding this condition, particularly the implications of having a high percentage of intestinal alkaline phosphatase. Any guidance would be greatly appreciated!
Understanding My Elevated Blood Pressure
I am a 23-year-old woman currently under the care of a cardiologist due to my hypertension and tachycardia. My medications include diltiazem, which I take at a dosage of 120 mg twice daily, and corlanor at 5 mg also twice a day. Presently, my blood pressure reads a concerning 210 over 110. Just a few nights ago, during a visit to the emergency room, it was recorded at 191 over 102. Although my cardiologist had referred me to the ER, the medical staff deemed my situation non-urgent at that time. I'm at a crossroads now—should I return to a different emergency room? I feel uncertain, especially after my previous experience which involved waiting over ten hours. I apologize if this post violates any guidelines. I'm truly unsure about how to categorize my circumstances. I appreciate any insights you might offer.
Possible Urethral Injury: Should I Go to the Emergency Room?
Last night, my partner (43M) and I (38F) engaged in some rather intense intimate activity. When I woke up during the night to urinate, I experienced an intense burning sensation, accompanied by a peeling feeling that was far worse than anything I've dealt with before, even considering my history of frequent urinary tract infections. Upon awakening this morning, I noticed that there was blood on the toilet paper after wiping. A closer examination revealed that the opening of my urethra appears to be bleeding. If I press toilet paper against it, it comes away stained with blood, and the pain is quite severe. Even the act of sitting, bending, or sneezing is excruciating. I'm left wondering if it’s possible that I’ve somehow injured my urethra during sex. Can a female urethra sustain a tear through sexual intercourse? Should I seek emergency medical attention? We're in a bit of a debate about whether a trip to the ER is necessary... Also, if anyone has any alternative suggestions regarding what might be happening, I would really appreciate your thoughts!
Concerned About a Possible Infection in My Belly Button?
I am a 22-year-old male. About two weeks ago, I noticed the development of white, crusty formations around my belly button. Occasionally, when a hair brushes against my belly button, I discover a yellowish, semi-transparent crust when I return home. Upon removing this crust, I find an odorless liquid discharge inside. I have been maintaining a daily shower routine and applying povidone iodine, unsure whether the issue is fungal or bacterial, but there hasn't been any improvement. The discomfort is minimal unless I attempt to remove the crust, which leads to a typical sensitivity in the belly button area. Should I consider purchasing antifungal or antibacterial ointment? I appreciate any advice you can provide.