IS IT NORMAL TO HAVE

  IS IT NORMAL TO HAVE BLOOD IN YOUR URINE ALL THE TIME? EVERY TIME I HAVE A URIN TEST DONE IT COMES BACK LIKE THAT WITH NO INFECTION. I DO HAVE A DISTENDED BLADDER, COULD THIS BE THE PROBLEM??
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Dear Kim
Thanks for your questions.
Blood in the urine is not normal with or without a distended bladder.
Urine test for blood are different.  If it is a dip stick, the test depends on a chemical reaction between the iron from the blood in the urine and the stick.  These test are not very reliable and should be checked with a microscopic evaluation.  Three or greater red blood cells per high powered field is the cut off for a urological work-up.  The typical work-up for microscopic hematuria is a  cystoscopic exam (telescopic look into the bladder), plus or minus a urine for cytology and an IVP ( intravenous pyelogram- dye/ contrast x-ray to look at the kidneys and ureters.     If your work-up  is negative which about 30% are you will need to have these repeated every three to five years if you continue to have microscopic blood in the urine.  Some of the causes of blood in the urine is infection, stones or tumors.  These diseases can be dangerous if not found or treated.  
More individualized care is available at the Henry Ford Hospital and its urban campuses by calling  (1 800 653 6568). We can also arrange local accommodations through this number if this is your need. Please bring any physicians