Hydronephrosis (Kidney Become Swollen)

Urine flows from your kidney to your bladder when you have hydronephrosis, also known as upper urinary tract dilatation. Your kidneys enlarge, either one or both of them.

Any age can have hydronephrosis. Children with hydronephrosis may be identified in their early years or occasionally even before the infant is born, during a prenatal ultrasound.

Causes of Hydronephrosis

Usually, the kidneys release pee into the bladder, which empties the kidney through a tube known as a ureter. However, occasionally pee becomes trapped in the ureter or kidney and backs up. Hydronephrosis may then occur at that point.

Ureteral obstruction

Urine flow obstructions of some kind are a typical cause of hydronephrosis. This blockage may arise in the ureter or at the urethra, among other locations in the urinary system. Kidney stones, tumors, blood clots, and congenital anomalies are some of the causes of blockage.

Kidney Stones

Stones, which are oxalate and calcium-based hard deposits that can lodge in the kidneys or urinary system.

Maternal Hydronephrosis during Pregnancy

Sometimes the ureters are compressed by the expanding uterus, which results in hydronephrosis.

Tumors or Specific Cancers

Bladder, cervical, colon, or prostate cancer are examples.

Infection of the Urinary Tract

Other diseases that result in irritation of the urinary tract.

Symptoms of Hydronephrosis

• Blood in Your Pee
• More or Less than Usual Urination
• Infection of the Urinary Tract (UTI)
• Pain During Urination
• Vomiting or Nausea
• Fever
• Pain on the side of the damaged kidney, or the flank

Diagnosis of Hydronephrosis

Examination of the body

Your doctor will check for pain or swelling in the area around your kidneys and bladder, as well as ask about any other symptoms you may be experiencing.

Blood Tests

If an infection is suspected, a complete blood count (CBC) may be performed. Renal function tests may also be performed, such as those for creatinine, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), and estimated GFR (eGFR).

Urine Tests

 A sample of your urine will be taken by your healthcare professional, who will then examine it to check for infections, germs, stones, or blood. To empty the urine, they might need to use a catheter.  Look for urinary stones that might cause an obstruction or indications of an infection.

Imaging Tests

 Ultrasound is the primary imaging test. There may be a need for an MRI or CT scan.

Treatment of Hydronephrosis

Antibiotics Used to Treat Infections

An antibiotic to treat or protect against urinary tract infections.

Surgery to relieve reflux or obstruction

Surgery to remove blockages in the ureters may be used to insert a small tube called a stent.

Any stone causing obstruction should be removed

Kidney stones can be broken up by sound waves or surgically removed.

Medication

In some situations, doctors may also prescribe medication to treat hydronephrosis. One option for treating an enlarged prostate is to surgically remove part of the prostate.

Conclusion

When a person has hydronephrosis, their urine cannot adequately empty from their kidneys. The underlying aetiology of the ailment typically determines the course of treatment.

Early detection and treatment can typically prevent hydronephrosis from posing long-term health risks. In neonates, hydronephrosis may be more difficult to identify if an ultrasound doesn’t reveal the issue before delivery. To assist identify a potential issue, people should keep an eye out for symptoms of a UTI in infants.