Hydronephrosis – Symptoms and Causes
Overview
Hydronephrosis is a condition where one or both kidneys swell due to urine buildup. This happens when urine cannot properly drain from the kidney.
The most common reasons for this are a blockage in the urinary tract or a congenital abnormality present at birth. Without proper treatment, this condition may lead to kidney damage in some cases.
This condition can affect people of any age. Many individuals with hydronephrosis experience no symptoms at all. Those who do develop symptoms might notice:
- Pain in the side or back
- Painful urination
- Vomiting
- Fever
Medical professionals can detect hydronephrosis through various diagnostic methods. In some cases, the condition can be identified before birth during prenatal screenings or during infancy.
Treatment options vary depending on what’s causing the hydronephrosis. Some patients require medication or surgical intervention to relieve symptoms and prevent kidney damage. Mild cases of hydronephrosis may resolve naturally without treatment.
Signs and Symptoms
Hydronephrosis often has no symptoms. When symptoms do appear, they may include:
- Pain in the side and back (may spread to the lower abdomen or groin)
- Painful urination
- Frequent or urgent need to urinate
- Nausea and vomiting
- Fever
- Poor growth in babies
- Unexplained weight loss
- Decreased appetite
- Blood in the urine
When Medical Help Is Needed
Contact your healthcare provider if you notice any symptoms of hydronephrosis. While infants with this condition typically don’t show obvious signs, it’s important to seek immediate medical attention if your baby develops a high fever or seems unusually fussy.
Don’t wait to get help if you suspect something is wrong.
What Causes Hydronephrosis
Hydronephrosis happens when the kidneys swell due to problems with urine flow. Several factors can lead to this condition.
Blockages in the Urinary System
The most common cause is a blockage somewhere in the urinary tract. When urine can’t flow normally from the kidneys to the bladder and out of the body, it backs up. This backup leads to swelling.
Birth-Related Causes
Some people are born with urinary tract problems. These include ureteropelvic junction obstruction and an abnormal ureter structure causing urine to flow backward.
Kidney Stones
Hard mineral deposits can form in the kidneys and block urine flow. These stones can cause sudden, severe pain along with hydronephrosis.
Prostate Issues
In men, an enlarged prostate can press against the urethra and bladder. This pressure makes emptying the bladder difficult, potentially forcing urine back toward the kidneys.
Ureter Problems
The ureters (tubes connecting kidneys to bladder) can become injured during pelvic surgery, narrowed due to scarring, or constricted from radiation treatment.
Infections
Urinary tract infections can cause inflammation throughout the system, including the kidneys. This swelling may lead to hydronephrosis.
Pregnancy Effects
Many pregnant women experience temporary hydronephrosis. The growing uterus puts pressure on the urinary tract. This condition typically resolves after childbirth without treatment.
Cancer
Several types of cancer can block parts of the urinary system, leading to hydronephrosis. These include bladder, cervical, colorectal, and prostate cancer.
When urine flow reverses direction (reflux), it travels from the bladder back up to the kidneys. This abnormal flow pattern can damage kidney tissue over time if not addressed.
Risk Factors
Several factors can increase your chance of developing hydronephrosis:
For AdultsAaged 20-60:
- Being female carries a higher risk
- Pregnancy
- Uterine conditions
- Ovarian issues (cysts, infections, tumors)
For People Over 60:
- Enlarged prostate (in men)
- Urinary tract blockages
- Cancers affecting the urinary system
These conditions can block normal urine flow, causing the kidney to swell.
Complications
Hydronephrosis may cause serious health problems if left untreated. People with severe cases might develop permanent kidney damage over time.
The affected kidney can gradually lose its ability to work properly. In rare cases, the condition can progress to kidney failure. In kidney failure, the kidney can no longer filter blood effectively.
This is why prompt medical attention is important when hydronephrosis is suspected.
