Thorough Diagnosis at Urology Clinics for Peace of Mind

Noticing blood in your urine—whether visible (gross hematuria) or microscopic—can be alarming. While not always serious, hematuria (혈뇨 – hyeolnyo) can signal a range of underlying conditions from urinary tract infections to kidney or bladder disorders. If you're an expat or traveler in Korea and see red, pink, or brown discoloration in your urine, don’t panic—but do get it checked promptly. Clinics like Gangnam J Urology Clinic provide comprehensive hematuria evaluation with same-day diagnostic testing and tailored follow-up care.

What Is Hematuria and What Causes It?

Hematuria refers to the presence of blood in the urine. It may be:

• Gross Hematuria: Visible to the naked eye—urine appears pink, red, or cola-colored.
• Microscopic Hematuria: Detected only on urine tests—no visible discoloration.

Common Causes of Hematuria:

• Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)
• Kidney Stones or Bladder Stones
• Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)
• Vigorous Exercise ("Runner’s Hematuria")
• Glomerulonephritis (kidney inflammation)
• Bladder or Kidney Cancer (especially in older adults or smokers)
• Trauma to the kidneys or bladder
• Menstruation or sexual activity (in some women)

While some causes are minor, others require immediate medical evaluation—especially if blood persists or is accompanied by other symptoms.

Hematuria Evaluation in Korea: Fast and Systematic

Clinics like Gangnam J Urology Clinic follow a structured diagnostic approach to pinpoint the cause and guide appropriate treatment:

• 1. Detailed Medical History and Interview
  The doctor will ask about symptom onset, recent infections, exercise habits, medication use, and family history.
• 2. Physical Examination
  Includes a basic abdominal and genital exam, and in men, a prostate check.
• 3. Urinalysis (소변 검사)
  A dipstick test and microscopic evaluation confirm the presence of red blood cells and look for signs of infection or proteinuria.
• 4. Urine Culture (소변 배양 검사)
  To rule out bacterial infections as a cause.
• 5. Imaging Studies
• Ultrasound (초음파): A first-line, non-invasive imaging method for kidneys and bladder.
• CT Urogram: Highly accurate imaging of the entire urinary tract, especially helpful if stones, tumors, or anatomical abnormalities are suspected.
• 6. Cystoscopy (방광경 검사):
  In patients with gross hematuria or risk factors (e.g., age over 40, smoking), the doctor may recommend inserting a small scope through the urethra to visually inspect the bladder lining for tumors, inflammation, or trauma.

What to Expect at a Korean Urology Clinic Like Gangnam J

• Same-Day Testing: Many diagnostic steps (urinalysis, ultrasound, cystoscopy) are performed on-site.
• Stepwise Approach: Non-invasive methods are used first, with escalation only when necessary.
• Quick Turnaround Time: Lab results are typically available within 24–48 hours.
• Bilingual Support: English-speaking staff or coordinators are often available in Gangnam clinics to assist foreign patients.
• Private and Comfortable Setting: Clinics are designed to maintain patient privacy and ease throughout the exam process.

Cost of Hematuria Evaluation in Korea

With NHIS Coverage:

• Consultation: ₩5,000 – ₩20,000
• Urinalysis: ₩3,000 – ₩7,000
• Ultrasound: ₩15,000 – ₩40,000
• Cystoscopy: ₩30,000 – ₩100,000
• CT Urogram (if needed): ₩70,000 – ₩150,000
  Total: ₩50,000 – ₩200,000+ depending on tests performed.

Without NHIS (Out-of-Pocket):

• Consultation: ₩50,000 – ₩100,000
• Urinalysis: ₩10,000 – ₩20,000
• Ultrasound: ₩50,000 – ₩100,000
• Cystoscopy: ₩200,000 – ₩400,000
• CT Urogram: ₩300,000 – ₩600,000
  Total: ₩150,000 – ₩1,000,000+ depending on complexity and imaging.

When to See a Urologist Immediately

Seek care promptly if you notice:

• Persistent or heavy blood in the urine
• Clots or difficulty urinating
• Pain in your sides or lower back
• Symptoms of infection (fever, chills, burning sensation)
• A history of urinary tract issues or family history of urinary cancers

Possible Next Steps After Diagnosis

Depending on the underlying cause, treatment may include:

• Antibiotics for infections
• Stone management if kidney or bladder stones are present
• Medication for enlarged prostate or inflammation
• Biopsy or referral if cancer is suspected
• Follow-up testing to monitor for recurrence or confirm resolution



While not always serious, hematuria should never be dismissed. Korea’s healthcare system offers some of the most efficient and thorough urologic evaluations in Asia. Clinics like Gangnam J Urology Clinic are well-equipped to guide you from diagnosis to treatment—with modern facilities, minimal wait times, and a foreigner-friendly approach. Early evaluation is key to peace of mind and proper care.