Hydronephrosis is the condition in which the kidney enlarges and swells because urine produced in the kidney cannot pass normally to the bladder due to an obstruction. This condition usually develops due to a blockage in the urinary tract and can cause damage to the kidney tissue over time.
Causes
The most common conditions that lead to hydronephrosis:
- Kidney and ureteral stones
- Ureteral strictures
- Prostate enlargement (in men)
- Tumors (compressing the urinary tract from the outside or inside)
- Congenital urinary tract anomalies
- Temporary compression conditions during pregnancy
Symptoms
Symptoms may vary according to the severity of the hydronephrosis and how quickly it develops:
- Pain in the flank and lower back area
- Decrease in the amount of urine
- Frequent urinary tract infections
- Nausea and vomiting
- Fever in advanced cases (if accompanied by infection)
- Sometimes a completely silent course
Possible risks
If left untreated:
- Thinning of the kidney tissue
- Permanent loss of kidney function
- Recurrent infections
- Kidney failure in the advanced stage
Treatment approaches
Treatment is entirely directed at the underlying cause:
- If there is a stone: breaking or removing the stone
- If there is a stricture: endoscopic widening or surgical repair
- If there is a tumor: oncological surgery or interventional treatments
- Temporary relief: DJ stent (double J catheter)
- In emergencies: kidney drainage (nephrostomy)
The aim is to prevent loss of function by reducing the pressure on the kidney.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does hydronephrosis cause pain?
Yes. Especially when the obstruction develops suddenly, the flank pain can be quite severe. However, in some patients it can progress silently.
Is hydronephrosis dangerous?
Yes. If left untreated for a long time, permanent damage may occur in the kidney tissue.
Does the kidney return to its former state?
With early diagnosis and prompt treatment, kidney functions can largely return. However, in long-term obstructions permanent damage may develop.
What causes hydronephrosis?
The most common causes are stones, ureteral strictures and prostate enlargement.
How urgent is treatment?
If there is infection or complete obstruction, urgent intervention is required. Otherwise the kidney can be damaged rapidly.
Clinical Summary
Hydronephrosis usually occurs when a blockage in urine flow causes back pressure in the kidney. It is a reversible condition when diagnosed early; however, because permanent kidney damage may develop in case of delay, urological evaluation is critically important.
