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What Is Hydronephrosis?
Written by Medicover Team and Medically Reviewed by Dr Anita Tripathy , Pediatricians
Hydronephrosis is the swelling of the kidney due to the accumulation of urine that is not infected, and it may occur due to resistance in the outflow of urine from the kidney to the ureter or urinary bladder.
There are numerous potential causes of hydronephrosis, and each one needs to be addressed.
What are the Hydronephrosis Symptoms and Warning Signs?
Hydronephrosis symptoms vary depending on age and severity. While some infants show no signs, others may experience visible swelling or discomfort.
In older children, pain and urinary symptoms are more prominent. Early recognition can help prevent complications.
Common Symptoms:
- Swelling in the belly or flank (especially in babies)
- Blood in the urine can also be a symptom of hydronephrosis.
- Difficulty passing urine (may indicate infection)
Severe Symptoms:
- Flank or abdominal pain (especially in older children)
- Fever (suggestive of urinary tract infection)
- Recurring urinary infections
When to consult a doctor:
If your child has unexplained belly swelling, painful urination, blood in the urine, or repeated UTIs, seek pediatric urological evaluation promptly.
What are the Different Types of Hydronephrosis?
Hydronephrosis can be classified based on severity and cause:
- Unilateral Hydronephrosis: Swelling affects one kidney.
- Bilateral Hydronephrosis: Both kidneys are involved.
- Prenatal Hydronephrosis: Detected before birth via routine ultrasound.
- Postnatal Hydronephrosis: Diagnosed after birth with symptoms or imaging.
Severity levels (mild, moderate, or severe) are based on the degree of expansion of the kidney and blockage of urine flow.
What are the Common Causes and Risk Factors of Hydronephrosis?
Hydronephrosis can stem from various underlying issues that block urine flow or increase urinary pressure. Identifying the cause is key for treatment.
Causes of Hydronephrosis
- Urinary tract obstruction
- Kidney stones
- Congenital abnormalities
- Tumors
- Urinary tract infections
- Inflammation
- Pregnancy-related factors
- Scar tissue from previous surgeries
Risk Factors of Hydronephrosis
- Family history of kidney abnormalities
- Prior abdominal or pelvic surgeries
- Recurrent urinary infections
- Structural abnormalities in the urinary tract
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Get Second OpinionHow is Hydronephrosis Diagnosed?
Hydronephrosis diagnosis begins with imaging and is followed by functional studies to assess severity and underlying causes. At Medicover, we use advanced pediatric imaging and diagnostics.
Common Diagnostic Tests
- Prenatal Ultrasound: Often the first clue before birth
- Postnatal Ultrasound: Confirms kidney swelling after delivery
- Radionuclide Renal Scan: Evaluates kidney function and urine drainage
- Micturating Cystourethrogram (MCUG): Checks for urine reflux from the bladder back into the kidney
- Serial Imaging: Monitors the progression of kidney dilation
At Medicover Hospitals, our pediatric specialists provide precise diagnoses and continuous monitoring to ensure the best possible outcomes.
What are the Treatment Options for Hydronephrosis?
Treatment depends on the severity of the condition and whether the kidney function is compromised. At Medicover, we tailor treatment to each child's needs.
Non-Surgical Management
- Observation for mild/moderate cases
- Antibiotics to prevent infections
- Regular ultrasounds and renal scans
Surgical Options
- Pyeloplasty: Removal of the obstructed segment and reconnection of the ureter to the kidney
- Laparoscopic, open, or robotic techniques are available
- Robotic surgery offers faster recovery and minimal scarring
- DJ Stent Placement: Temporary support for urine drainage post-surgery
- Stent Removal: Done via cystoscopy after 6-8 weeks
At Medicover, surgeries are performed by skilled pediatric urologists, ensuring precision and safety.
When to See a Doctor?
Timely consultation is crucial when symptoms persist or worsen.
Consult a doctor if
- Belly or flank swelling is observed
- Urinary difficulties continue beyond a few days
- There are signs of a urinary tract infection or fever
- You notice blood in your child's urine
Children with a known history of kidney issues or congenital abnormalities should be closely monitored.
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What is the Recovery Process After Hydronephrosis Treatment?
Post-treatment care involves follow-ups and preventive strategies to safeguard kidney health.
Recovery Overview
- Prophylactic antibiotics for up to 6 weeks post-surgery
- Follow-up ultrasounds at 3 and 6 months
- Temporary persistence of hydronephrosis is expected
- Nutritional support and growth monitoring
- DJ stent removal after healing is complete
Medicover provides complete post-op support, including nutritional guidance, pediatric nephrology follow-ups, and access to 24/7 care.
What Precautions Can Help Prevent Hydronephrosis?
While some causes are congenital, others can be managed or avoided with preventive care.
Prevention of Hydronephrosis
- Prenatal ultrasound monitoring
- Timely treatment of urinary tract infections
- Avoiding dehydration
- Follow-up care for children with urinary abnormalities
Complications if untreated
- Kidney function loss
- Permanent kidney damage
- Need for nephrectomy (kidney removal)
- Recurrent infections
- Need for repeat surgical intervention
Our Experience Treating Hydronephrosis
At Medicover Hospitals, we are committed to providing expert and compassionate care for children with hydronephrosis. With a team of experienced pediatric urologists and nephrologists.
We use the latest techniques to ensure successful treatment and smooth recovery. Our goal is to protect your child's kidney health and enhance their quality of life.
