Hydronephrosis Home A-Z Health Information Health Library A-Z Hydronephrosis Overview Hydronephrosis is a condition characterised by obstruction to urine flow from the kidney, leading to backpressure changes, swelling, and dilation of the ureter and renal pelvis (the pathway connecting the kidneys to the bladder). This swelling exerts pressure on kidney tissue, causing renal dysfunction. If left untreated or chronic, it may lead to permanent kidney. Causes and Risk Factors Hydronephrosis is caused by various obstructions in the urinary tract. Common causes include:Kidney stones: Obstructing urine flow in the ureter.Congenital abnormalities: Structural defects in the urinary tract present from birth.Tumours or strictures: Narrowing or masses that block urine passage.Pregnancy: Compression of the ureters due to growing uterus. Symptoms Hydronephrosis symptoms vary depending on the severity and cause of the obstruction. These include:Acute presentation: Sudden flank pain due to kidney stones getting impacted in the ureter, often accompanied by haematuria (blood in urine). This may be associated with haematuria.Infections: Fever, abdominal pain, and discomfort, indicating infection in the kidney tissue.Chronic obstruction: Long-standing issues of the kidney tract such as long-standing renal stones/ congenital obstruction of some part of the urinary tract. It may be completely asymptomatic and detected incidentally during imaging studies for unrelated reasons. Specialist to approach It is advisable to consult a kidney specialist (Nephrologist) or a kidney surgeon (Urologist) to ensure appropriate evaluation and management. Diagnosis Diagnosing hydronephrosis involves:Imaging studies: Ultrasound or CT scan of the abdomen to detect swelling and obstruction.Urine tests: To identify infections or other abnormalities.Blood tests: Renal function tests to assess renal function test. Treatment Treatment depends on the underlying cause and severity of hydronephrosis:Surgical intervention: Surgical intervention is used to remove obstructions such as kidney stones or correct structural abnormalities.IV antibiotics: IV antibiotics are used to treat associated infections.