Blood in Urine (Hematuria)

During your appointment, your healthcare provider will take a medical history and perform a physical examination that might include a pelvic exam or a digital rectal exam. These things will help your provider understand your symptoms better. Your provider may order other tests. These tests may include:

Urinalysis: A test on a urine sample.
Urine culture: A urine test that checks for an infection.
Urine cytology: A urine test that checks for any abnormal-appearing cells.
Cystoscopy: A test that uses a device called a cystoscope to look at the inside of your bladder and urethra.
Ultrasound:A test that uses ultrasound waves to examine your kidney, ureters and bladder.
Computed tomography (CT) scan: A test that uses X-rays and computers to make cross-sectional images of your abdomen and pelvis.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan: A test that uses a large magnet, radio waves and a computer to produce images of your organs and structures.

Symptoms

When to see a doctor

Request an appointment

Complications

Blood clots are a dangerous complication of atrial fibrillation (AFib). Blood clots can lead to stroke.

The risk of stroke from AFib increases as you grow older. Other health conditions also may increase the risk of a stroke due to AFib. These conditions include:

High blood pressure.
Diabetes.
Heart failure.
Some types of heart valve disease.

Blood thinners are commonly prescribed to prevent blood clots and strokes in people with atrial fibrillation.

Prevention

Healthy lifestyle choices can reduce the risk of heart disease and may prevent atrial fibrillation (AFib). Here are some basic heart-healthy tips:

Control high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes.
Don't smoke or use tobacco.
Eat a diet that's low in salt and saturated fat.
Exercise at least 30 minutes a day on most days of the week unless your health care team says not to.
Get good sleep. Adults should aim for 7 to 9 hours daily.
Maintain a healthy weight.
Reduce and manage stress.

By Freedmans Health Clinic Staff

Living with atrial fibrillation?

Connect with others like you for support and answers to your questions in the Heart Rhythm Conditions support group on Freedmans Health Clinic Connect, a patient community.