Understanding Hydronephrosis

What is Hydronephrosis?

Hydronephrosis is a condition where one or both kidneys become swollen due to the buildup of urine. This occurs when urine cannot properly drain from the kidney to the bladder.

Common Causes

• Urinary stones: Kidney or ureter stones blocking urine flow
• Pregnancy: Pressure from the growing uterus
• Tumors: Cancerous or benign growths
• Structural problems: Such as UPJ (ureteropelvic junction) obstruction
• Enlarged prostate: In men, causing bladder outlet obstruction

Symptoms

• Pain in the back or side (flank pain)
• Abdominal pain
• Urinary problems:
  • Frequent urination
  • Urgent need to urinate
  • Pain during urination
• Nausea and vomiting
• Blood in urine

Diagnosis

Your doctor may use several methods to diagnose hydronephrosis:

1. Ultrasound imaging
2. CT scan
3. MRI
4. Blood tests
5. Urinalysis

Treatment Options

Conservative Management

• Pain medication
• Antibiotics if infection is present
• Monitoring and follow-up

Medical Interventions

• Catheterization
• Stent placement
• Nephrostomy tube insertion

Surgical Options

• Stone removal
• Tumor removal
• Repair of structural abnormalities

Complications if Untreated

• Kidney damage
• Chronic pain
• Recurrent infections
• Permanent kidney function loss

Prevention

• Stay hydrated
• Maintain good urinary health
• Regular medical check-ups
• Prompt treatment of underlying conditions

When to Seek Medical Care

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

• Severe pain
• High fever
• Inability to urinate
• Blood in urine
• Persistent vomiting