As part of the News 6 morning team, Traffic Safety Expert Steven Montiero shares his experience on the roads as a Florida state trooper and a veteran of the U.S. Air Force with Central Florida viewers.

Hematuria refers to the presence of blood in the urine, which can be visible to the naked eye (gross hematuria) or detected only under a microscope (microscopic hematuria). It is a concerning symptom that can indicate an underlying medical condition. Several factors can contribute to the development of hematuria. Here are some common causes:

Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): Infections in the urinary tract, such as in the bladder (cystitis) or kidneys (pyelonephritis), can lead to hematuria. UTIs are often accompanied by symptoms like frequent urination, burning sensation during urination, and cloudy or foul-smelling urine.

Kidney Stones: These are hard deposits formed in the kidneys from minerals and salts. When they move through the urinary tract, they can cause irritation, leading to hematuria. Kidney stones may also cause severe pain in the back or lower abdomen.

Urinary Tract Injuries: Trauma or injury to the urinary tract, such as during accidents, falls, or certain medical procedures, can result in hematuria. The injury may affect the kidneys, bladder, ureters, or urethra.

Bladder or Kidney Infections: Infections specifically in the bladder (cystitis) or kidneys (pyelonephritis) can cause hematuria. These infections are often accompanied by symptoms such as pain in the lower abdomen, frequent urination, and fever.

Enlarged Prostate: In men, an enlarged prostate gland (benign prostatic hyperplasia) can cause hematuria. The enlarged prostate can obstruct the normal flow of urine, leading to bleeding.

Kidney Disease: Various kidney conditions, including glomerulonephritis, polycystic kidney disease, and kidney cancer, can result in hematuria. These conditions can damage the kidneys' filtering system, causing blood to appear in the urine.

Medications and Blood Thinners: Certain medications and blood-thinning drugs, such as aspirin, warfarin, or heparin, can increase the risk of bleeding and hematuria.

Cancer: In some cases, hematuria may be associated with urinary tract or kidney cancer. It is essential to rule out these possibilities, especially if other symptoms like weight loss, fatigue, or pain are present.

It's important to note that the presence of blood in the urine does not always indicate a severe underlying condition. However, since it can be a sign of a significant health issue, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional if hematuria is observed. A thorough medical evaluation, including physical examination, medical history review, and diagnostic tests, will be necessary to determine the specific cause and provide appropriate treatment.

He still goes in every three months for CT scans, and his tumors are shrinking and disappearing. He is now looking forward to celebrating his 50th birthday.