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What Causes RBCs In Urine In A Smoker?

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Posted on Wed, 2 Jul 2014
Question: I had a urine test done and the RBC result was 3-10. How abnormal is that? The WBC was 0-5 and mucus threads were present. Of course, my first scare is that it is some type of cancer because I smoke 5-6 cigarettes a day. But what could be some other causes of these results
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Answered by Dr. Karen Steinberg (1 hour later)
Brief Answer:
It is somewhat abnormal. Follow up with a doctor

Detailed Answer:
Hi, and thank you for your question. Why did you have the urine test done? Normally there are few to no RBC and WBC in a man's urine. Mucus threads are a nonspecific finding and don't indicate anything in particular. Possible causes of RBC and WBC include bladder and urethral infection, including STDs, abdominal trauma, kidney stones, or infection higher up in the urinary tract. Bladder inflammation or irritation, certain drugs, fevers, and excessive physical activity may also cause a few blood cells to be released into the urine. Certainly cancer is a possibility and, as you know, smoking increases the risk. You should have this rechecked by a doctor and followed up if it is persisting. Your doctor could prescribe antibiotics if needed, or refer you to a specialist (urologist) if further tests of your urinary tract are necessary.

Hope this answers your query. If you have further questions I would be happy to answer them.
Note: For further follow up on related General & Family Physician Click here.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vinay Bhardwaj
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Answered by
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Dr. Karen Steinberg

Internal Medicine Specialist

Practicing since :1981

Answered : 824 Questions

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What Causes RBCs In Urine In A Smoker?

Brief Answer: It is somewhat abnormal. Follow up with a doctor Detailed Answer: Hi, and thank you for your question. Why did you have the urine test done? Normally there are few to no RBC and WBC in a man's urine. Mucus threads are a nonspecific finding and don't indicate anything in particular. Possible causes of RBC and WBC include bladder and urethral infection, including STDs, abdominal trauma, kidney stones, or infection higher up in the urinary tract. Bladder inflammation or irritation, certain drugs, fevers, and excessive physical activity may also cause a few blood cells to be released into the urine. Certainly cancer is a possibility and, as you know, smoking increases the risk. You should have this rechecked by a doctor and followed up if it is persisting. Your doctor could prescribe antibiotics if needed, or refer you to a specialist (urologist) if further tests of your urinary tract are necessary. Hope this answers your query. If you have further questions I would be happy to answer them.