ABOUT THE DISEASE
Hydronephrosis is a condition where one or both kidneys become stretched and swollen as a result of backward pressure of urine on the kidneys, when the flow of urine is blocked, leading to a build up of urine inside the kidneys. It can be unilateral or bilateral.
SYMPTOMS
The symptoms depend on the location and duration of the blockage, and include:
CAUSES
Hydronephrosis is caused as a result of some disease and is not a disease in itself. The causes of this condition include:- Congenital or birth defect of the kidney or ureter.- Blockage at the point where the kidney joins the ureter.- Stones and blood clots in the kidney (Nephrolithiasis) or ureter.- Cancer, injury, or infection of the ureter.- Scar tissue formation.- Cancer of bladder, cervix or prostate gland.- Abnormality of the nerves or muscles of the kidney or ureter.- Lower part of the ureter protruding into the bladder (ureterocele).- Vesicouereteric reflux - Backflow of urine.- Both the kidneys can be affected during pregnancy. This is because the enlarging uterus presses on the ureters and blocks the flow of urine.
DIAGNOSIS
- Abdominal ultrasound / CT Scan or a MRI
TREATMENT METHODS
Treatment plan depends upon what is causing the kidney swelling. Treatment may include:• Placing a ureteral stent (tube that allows the ureter to drain into the bladder)• Placing a nephrostomy tube (allows the blocked urine to drain through the back)• Giving antibiotics for infections.• Breaking down of the stone (lithotripsy).
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