Hydronephrosis is a condition in which one or both kidneys become swollen due to the buildup of urine. It happens when urine cannot drain properly from the kidney to the bladder because of an obstruction or blockage in the urinary tract.
While mild cases may not cause immediate symptoms, untreated hydronephrosis can lead to serious kidney damage. If you are experiencing persistent back pain, urinary problems, or have been diagnosed with kidney stones, consulting the best urologist near you is essential for timely treatment.
In this comprehensive guide, we will cover:
- What hydronephrosis is
- Causes and risk factors
- Symptoms to watch for
- Diagnostic tests
- Treatment options
- When to seek medical help
What Is Hydronephrosis?
Hydronephrosis refers to the dilation (swelling) of the kidney due to urine accumulation. Normally, urine flows from:
Kidney → Ureter → Bladder → Urethra
When there is a blockage anywhere along this pathway, urine backs up into the kidney, causing pressure and swelling.
Hydronephrosis can be:
- Unilateral – affecting one kidney
- Bilateral – affecting both kidneys (more serious)
- Acute – sudden onset
- Chronic – develops gradually over time
Causes of Hydronephrosis
Hydronephrosis is not a disease itself — it is a result of another underlying condition. Common causes include:
- Kidney Stones
One of the most common causes. Stones can block the ureter and prevent urine drainage.
- Enlarged Prostate (BPH)
In men above 50, prostate enlargement can compress the urethra and cause urinary obstruction.
- Ureteral Stricture
Narrowing of the ureter due to infection, surgery, or injury.
- Tumors
Bladder, prostate, or kidney tumors can obstruct urine flow.
- Pregnancy
The growing uterus may compress the ureters temporarily.
- Congenital Abnormalities
Some babies are born with structural urinary tract abnormalities.
- Blood Clots or Scar Tissue
Can block urine passage.
If you have recurrent kidney stones or prostate problems, regular evaluation by a qualified urologist is recommended to prevent complications.
Symptoms of Hydronephrosis
Symptoms vary depending on severity and whether the condition is acute or chronic.
Common Symptoms:
- Severe back or flank pain
- Pain in lower abdomen
- Nausea and vomiting
- Fever (if infection present)
- Frequent urination
- Burning sensation while urinating
- Weak urine stream
- Blood in urine (Hematuria)
In chronic cases, symptoms may be mild or absent until significant kidney damage occurs.
If you experience severe pain with fever and vomiting, seek immediate medical attention.
Is Hydronephrosis Dangerous?
Yes — if left untreated.
Prolonged urine buildup increases pressure inside the kidney, reducing its ability to filter blood properly. Over time, this can lead to:
- Permanent kidney damage
- Kidney failure
- Recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs)
- Sepsis (life-threatening infection)
Early diagnosis significantly improves outcomes.
Diagnosis of Hydronephrosis
A urologist may recommend the following tests:
- Ultrasound
Most common and first-line imaging test.
- CT Scan
Helps detect stones, tumors, or structural abnormalities.
- MRI
Used in complex cases.
- Urine Test
To check for infection or blood.
- Blood Tests
To evaluate kidney function (creatinine levels).
- IVP or Nuclear Renal Scan
Assesses drainage and kidney function.
Early imaging helps determine whether the blockage is partial or complete.
Treatment of Hydronephrosis
Treatment depends on the underlying cause and severity.
- Immediate Relief of Obstruction
If there is severe blockage, emergency procedures may include:
- Ureteral Stent Placement – A thin tube inserted into the ureter to allow urine drainage.
- Percutaneous Nephrostomy – A tube placed directly into the kidney to drain urine.
These procedures quickly relieve pressure and prevent kidney damage.
- Treatment Based on Cause
Kidney Stones
- Medical therapy for small stones
- Laser stone removal (RIRS/URS)
- PCNL for larger stones
Enlarged Prostate
- Medications
- Laser prostate surgery
- TURP
Tumors
- Surgical removal
- Oncological management
Ureteral Stricture
- Balloon dilation
- Surgical repair
Early consultation with the best urologist near you ensures minimally invasive treatment options and faster recovery.
Hydronephrosis in Pregnancy
Mild hydronephrosis is common during pregnancy due to uterine pressure. It usually resolves after delivery. However, severe pain or infection requires medical evaluation.
Hydronephrosis in Children
Congenital hydronephrosis may be detected during prenatal ultrasound. Many mild cases resolve on their own, but severe obstruction may need surgery.
Can Hydronephrosis Be Prevented?
Prevention focuses on addressing underlying causes:
- Stay hydrated
- Treat kidney stones early
- Regular prostate screening after 50
- Manage urinary infections promptly
- Follow up on abnormal urinary symptoms
Regular health check-ups can prevent chronic kidney damage.
When to See a Urologist?
Consult a urologist immediately if you experience:
- Severe flank pain
- Fever with urinary symptoms
- Blood in urine
- Difficulty passing urine
- Persistent nausea or vomiting
Delaying treatment can result in permanent kidney damage.
Recovery & Prognosis
If treated early, hydronephrosis often resolves completely without long-term damage.
Recovery depends on:
- Duration of obstruction
- Severity
- Underlying cause
- Overall kidney function
Minimally invasive procedures usually allow faster recovery and shorter hospital stays.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can hydronephrosis go away on its own?
Mild cases (especially during pregnancy) may resolve. However, most cases require medical evaluation.
- Is hydronephrosis a kidney failure?
No, but untreated hydronephrosis can lead to kidney failure.
- How long can a kidney stay blocked?
Even a few weeks of complete blockage can cause permanent damage.
- Is surgery always required?
Not always. Treatment depends on the cause and severity.
- Can hydronephrosis recur?
Yes, if the underlying cause is not treated properly.
Conclusion
Hydronephrosis is a serious condition that should never be ignored. Although it may begin with mild symptoms, untreated urinary obstruction can permanently damage the kidneys.
If you are experiencing persistent back pain, urinary difficulty, or have a history of kidney stones or prostate enlargement, consult an experienced urologist for proper evaluation and treatment.
Early diagnosis, modern minimally invasive techniques, and timely intervention can preserve kidney function and prevent long-term complications.