Microscopic hematuria is a condition in which there is blood in urine that is invisible to the human eye. The urine appears normal to the naked eye, but examination under a microscopic reveals the blood. Microscopic hematuria in men may be caused by benign prostatic hypertrophy, or BPH, tumors, urinary system infections and certain prescription medications, according to FamilyDoctor.org. Men who continue to have microscopic hematuria may develop iron deficiency anemia.
Iron Deficiency Anemia and Microscopic Hematuria
Iron deficiency anemia is a condition in which there is an abnormally low red blood cell count due to iron deficiency. Iron is an essential mineral needed to make healthy red blood cells. Microscopic hematuria causes loss of iron-rich blood, leading to decreased iron levels in the body. Early diagnosis of microscopic hematuria in men can help prevent iron deficiency anemia.
Microscopic Hematuria Prevention
The only way to prevent microscopic hematuria is to diagnose and treat the cause of bleeding. Microscopic hematuria is diagnosed through urinalysis, which is a medical test that analyzes urine content. The doctor may schedule regular medical examinations for men with BPH or other conditions that increase the risk for microscopic hematuria. The doctor may also order regular blood tests in men who are prescribed medications that are likely to cause microscopic hematuria.
Symptoms of Iron Deficiency Anemia
Men at increased risk for microscopic hematuria should be aware of the symptoms of iron deficiency anemia so they can seek early diagnosis and treatment. Iron deficiency anemia causes symptoms such as weakness, fatigue, headache, dizziness, pale skin, cold hands and feet, sore tongue, irregular heartbeat, brittle nails, irritability and problems concentrating, according to PubMedHealth.
Treatment of Iron Deficiency Anemia
Iron deficiency anemia is treated using iron supplements and iron-rich foods. Men who cannot take oral iron supplements may be treated using iron injections. Iron supplements should be taken with food to prevent stomach irritation. Daily consumption of iron-rich foods can help prevent iron deficiency. Iron-rich foods include beef liver, red meat, fish, chicken, egg yolk, beans, peas, raisins, spinach, kale, apricots, prunes, enriched breads and fortified breakfast cereals.
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