URINARY TRACT BLEEDS:
`These are the bleeds that occurs in the kidney, bladder, urethras (the tubes that lead from the kidney to the bladder). These bleeds may happen for no apparent reason (spontaneously) or be caused by an injury. Most kidney bleeds occur without a known cause, while most bladder bleeds are usually due to an infection. These bleeds can be very serious if left untreated.
Signs and Symptoms:
• Bright red or cola colored urine
• Lower back pain or pain that go from the back to the front and down the leg; the pain may be constant or it may come and go
• Painful or frequent urination (this could be a symptom of a bladder infection, which would require treatment with an antibiotic).
Some suggestions for treatment:
• If bleeding is from strain or injury, patient has to be examined for internal injuries and X-Ray may need to be taken to check kidneys.
• Urinalysis (test on urine to look for sign of infection) is carried out to check for bladder infection
• For spontaneous bleeds, more fluids has to be taken to flush the urinary tract. This will help prevent clots, which could damage your kidneys or ureters. It is recommended that the patient drink one 8 ounce glass of liquid (app.200ml) each hour during the day and one every couple of hours at night. Drinks with caffeine should be avoided because they cause restlessness.
• Resting flat on one's back
• Heavy lifting, pulling or pushing has to be avoided for 1-2 weeks
• Aminocaproic acid should be avoided as it prevents clots from dissolving which could lead to damage of kidneys.
• Transmenic acid (Transanin/Cyklokapron) should not be taken
• Factor concentrate: 20 units/kg, repeat 10 units/kg, 8 hourly for factor VIII, 12 hourly for factor IX