How to Test for Blood in Urine After Exercise
How to Test for Blood in Urine After Exercise
Why It Matters
Testing for hematuria post-exercise can help identify if it's a benign condition or something more serious. Learn how testing works and what the results mean.
Contents
- Initial Self-Checks
- When to Seek Professional Testing
- Advanced Diagnostic Tools
Initial Self-Checks
Start by visually inspecting your urine for any noticeable blood. If it's dark or reddish, it could indicate hematuria. Keep track of when this occurs, especially after intense workouts.
When to Seek Professional Testing
If blood in urine persists for more than a week, seek medical evaluation. Doctors may use a urine dipstick test, which detects blood by identifying heme in the urine.
Advanced Diagnostic Tools
For persistent or unexplained cases, advanced tests like phase contrast microscopy or Doppler ultrasonography may be used. These tests help identify the source of the hematuria and rule out other conditions.
FAQs
What should you do first?
Check urine color after workouts.
When is a doctor's test needed?
If hematuria persists over a week.
What does a urine dipstick test do?
It detects blood in urine by identifying heme.
Key Takeaways
Testing helps determine whether hematuria is benign or needs attention.
Additional References
- Fassett RG, Owen JE, Fairley J, et al. Urinary red-cell morphology during exercise. Br Med J (Clin Res Ed) 1982; 285:1455.
- Shokeir AA, el-Diasty TA, Ghoneim MA. The nutcracker syndrome: new methods of diagnosis and treatment. Br J Urol 1994; 74:139.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic.