What does hematuria refer to?

Hematuria specifically refers to the presence of blood in the urine. This condition can manifest in different forms, such as gross hematuria, where the blood is visible to the naked eye, or microscopic hematuria, which can only be detected through laboratory testing.

The causes of hematuria can range from urinary tract infections and kidney stones to more serious conditions like kidney disease or cancers related to the urinary system. Detecting hematuria is significant as it can indicate underlying health issues that may require further investigation or treatment.

The other options describe different medical conditions: blood in stool refers to gastrointestinal bleeding, coughing up blood relates to respiratory issues, and dark sticky feces often indicates upper gastrointestinal bleeding or certain dietary factors. Each of these conditions has its own implications and diagnostic considerations, separate and distinct from hematuria.