Hydronephrosis

Overview

Hydronephrosis is swelling of one or both kidneys. It happens when urine can't drain from a kidney and builds up in the kidney as a result. The condition can be due to a blockage in the tubes that drain urine from the kidneys. It also can happen due to a difference present at birth that prevents urine from draining properly. In some people, hydronephrosis causes kidney damage over time.

Hydronephrosis can happen at any age. The condition often causes no symptoms. People who get symptoms may have side and back pain, painful urination, vomiting and fever. Healthcare professionals have various ways to spot hydronephrosis. Tests to find the condition can be done during infancy or sometimes before a baby is born.

Treatment for hydronephrosis depends on the condition's cause. Some people need medicine or surgery to feel better and prevent kidney damage. Mild hydronephrosis sometimes goes away on its own over time.

Symptoms

Hydronephrosis often causes no symptoms. But when symptoms happen, they can include:

• Pain in the side and back that may travel to the lower stomach area or groin.
• Pain with urination, or feeling a need to urinate that is urgent or happens often.
• Upset stomach and vomiting.
• Fever.
• Failure to thrive in infants.
• Weight loss or loss of appetite.
• Blood in urine.

When to see a doctor

Call your healthcare professional if you have any symptoms of hydronephrosis. Babies with the condition often don't have symptoms. But get your baby a healthcare checkup right away for symptoms such as high fever.

Risk factors

Hydronephrosis risk factors among adults ages 20 to 60 include being born female. The higher risk could be due to certain conditions that affect the uterus, such as pregnancy. It also could be due to conditions that affect the ovaries, such as cysts, buildups of pus and cancer. Risk factors for people older than age 60 include having an enlarged prostate or a urinary tract blockage from cancer.

Complications

Hydronephrosis can lead to other health conditions called complications. Without treatment, some people who have severe hydronephrosis develop lasting kidney damage. Rarely, the condition can cause an affected kidney to lose its ability to filter blood, also called kidney failure.