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Hydronephrosis
Hydronephrosis
Hydronephrosis is a condition that results in swelling of one or both kidneys. It occurs due to the accumulation of urine that cannot flow out of the kidney through the urinary tract. Kidney stones, ureteral obstruction, congenital abnormalities, tumours, or an enlarged prostate may be contributing factors. Proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment help to preserve kidney function. Manipal Hospitals offers an individualised treatment plan focused on relieving kidney obstruction.
Treatments Available at
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Old Airport Road - Bengaluru
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Whitefield - Bengaluru
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Request a CallbackSymptoms of Hydronephrosis
Hydronephrosis may not cause symptoms in mild cases. However, symptoms may include flank or abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, painful urination, blood in the urine, and urinary frequency changes. Some patients may notice UTI symptoms such as fever and cloudy urine.
How We Diagnose Hydronephrosis
The hydronephrosis diagnosis begins with assessment of clinical history and physical examination. Imaging studies, such as ultrasound, are performed to detect kidney swelling and urinary tract obstruction. Urine tests and blood tests are performed to evaluate kidney function and detect infection. Additional tests, such as CT scans, MRI in selected cases, or intravenous urography, help identify the site and cause of blockage.
Treatment Options
Hydronephrosis treatment aims to relieve obstruction and treat the underlying cause. Treatment may involve medications or placement of a ureteral stent or nephrostomy tube to drain urine. Surgical interventions may be required to remove the obstruction and re-establish normal urine flow.
What to Expect
At Manipal Hospitals, treatment for hydronephrosis depends on the degree of kidney swelling, the underlying causes, and the patient's overall health. A detailed evaluation is performed in the beginning to determine the level and cause of obstruction in the urinary system. This evaluation uses imaging and blood tests.
If the obstruction is mild and there is no loss of renal function, a close observation approach is recommended. This involves periodic imaging and clinical evaluation. In cases of significant obstruction, intervention is necessary to relieve the blockage and preserve kidney function. This may include placing a ureteral stent to maintain normal urine flow from the kidney to the bladder. Alternatively, a nephrostomy tube may be placed to drain excess urine from the kidney.
When obstruction is caused by kidney stones, tumours, strictures, or birth defects, stone treatment or surgical intervention may be advised. If an associated infection is present, doctors recommend treatment with antibiotics.
The patient is followed closely after treatment to monitor kidney function and to make sure the urine is draining normally. Early treatment and regular monitoring are important to prevent long-term kidney damage and maintain urinary tract health.
Consult our Experts
FAQs
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What mainly causes hydronephrosis?
Hydronephrosis occurs when urine flow is obstructed somewhere in the urinary tract. Hydronephrosis causes include kidney stones, ureteral narrowing, congenital abnormalities, tumours, and an enlarged prostate in men. Conditions that compress the ureters and block normal urine drainage also contribute to this condition.
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Is hydronephrosis always caused by kidney stones?
No, kidney stones are a common cause of hydronephrosis. However, it can also result from narrowing of the ureter, congenital abnormalities, tumours, blood clots, or prostate enlargement. Any condition that blocks or slows urine flow may lead to hydronephrosis.
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Can hydronephrosis affect both kidneys?
Yes. Hydronephrosis can affect either one kidney (unilateral) or both kidneys (bilateral). Bilateral hydronephrosis is more concerning, as it may impair overall kidney function, requiring prompt evaluation and treatment.
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When is surgery required for hydronephrosis?
Surgery is recommended when it is not possible to relieve the obstruction through temporary drainage procedures or medications. Surgical treatment aims to remove the cause of blockage, such as kidney stones, strictures, or structural abnormalities that affect the urinary tract.
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How to prevent hydronephrosis?
Prevention is based on managing underlying risk factors. Adequate hydration, prompt treatment of UTIs, and monitoring for kidney stones are crucial. Additionally, a medical evaluation of urinary symptoms can reduce the risk of obstruction that leads to hydronephrosis.
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