From the Guidelines
To naturally address occult blood in urine, it is crucial to first consult a healthcare provider for a thorough medical evaluation to determine the underlying cause, as this symptom can range from benign conditions to serious diseases such as malignancies, especially in individuals with risk factors like gross hematuria, male gender, age >35 years, smoking, or occupational exposure to chemicals 1. Given the potential severity of the causes, any natural approach should complement, not replace, medical treatment. The initial step in managing occult blood in urine involves increasing fluid intake to 2-3 liters of water daily to help dilute urine and flush out bacteria, which is particularly beneficial for patients with urinary tract infections, a common cause of hematuria 1. For patients diagnosed with urinary tract infections, consuming unsweetened cranberry juice or taking cranberry supplements (400-500mg daily) can be beneficial as these contain compounds that prevent bacteria from adhering to urinary tract walls, thus helping in the management of the infection 1. Additionally, vitamin C (500-1000mg daily) may aid in creating an unfavorable environment for bacterial growth by acidifying the urine, which can help in reducing the severity of urinary tract infections, a cause of microhematuria 1. Incorporating anti-inflammatory foods such as turmeric (with black pepper for enhanced absorption) and omega-3 rich foods into the diet can help reduce inflammation in the urinary tract, which may be beneficial for conditions like interstitial cystitis, a potential cause of microhematuria 1. It is also advisable to avoid potential irritants such as alcohol, caffeine, spicy foods, and artificial sweeteners until symptoms resolve, as these can exacerbate urinary tract irritation and potentially worsen hematuria 1. Maintaining good hygiene practices and urinating frequently, especially after sexual activity, can help prevent urinary tract infections, a common cause of microhematuria 1. However, it's essential to note that these natural approaches are supplementary and should not delay or replace the necessary medical evaluation and treatment, especially for individuals with gross hematuria or other risk factors for malignancy, as the presence of blood in the urine can indicate serious conditions requiring prompt medical attention 1.
From the Research
Causes of Occult Blood in Urine
- Occult blood in urine, also known as hematuria, can be caused by various factors, including urinary tract infections, ureteric and renal stones, and genitourinary malignancy 2
- Other potential causes of microscopic hematuria include incidental causes, life-threatening urinary tract neoplasms, and proteinuria 3
Investigation and Management
- Recommended investigations for hematuria include computed tomography intravenous pyelogram, urine cytology, urine microscopy and culture, and blood tests (full blood examination, renal function, and prostate-specific antigen) 2
- Patients with risk factors for genitourinary malignancy, macroscopic haematuria, or those in whom no cause is found, should be referred to a urological service for further investigation, including cystoscopy 2
- For patients with asymptomatic microscopic hematuria or with hematuria persisting after treatment of urinary tract infection, evaluation using cytology plus intravenous urography, computed tomography, or ultrasonography is recommended 3
Resolution of Occult Blood in Urine
- Microscopic hematuria with signs of urinary tract infection should resolve with appropriate treatment of the underlying infection 3
- In some cases, further investigation and management by a urological service or nephrology subspecialist may be necessary to determine the cause and appropriate treatment of occult blood in urine 2, 3