The kidneys play a vital role in filtering waste and extra fluid from the blood. But when something blocks the flow of urine, it can cause the kidneys to swell — a condition known as Hydronephrosis. If left untreated, this can lead to permanent kidney damage.
In this blog, Dr. Sumit Bansal, a renowned Urologist and Kidney Specialist in Gurugram and Dwarka, explains what hydronephrosis is, its causes, symptoms, and why timely treatment is crucial for protecting kidney health.
What is Hydronephrosis?
Hydronephrosis occurs when urine cannot drain properly from the kidney to the bladder due to a blockage or obstruction in the urinary tract. This causes urine to back up, leading to swelling and pressure inside the kidney.
The condition can affect one (unilateral) or both kidneys (bilateral) and can occur at any age — from newborns to adults.
Common Causes of Hydronephrosis
There are several reasons urine flow can become blocked. Some of the most common causes include:
Kidney stones: The most frequent cause of sudden blockage in adults.
Ureteral stricture: Narrowing of the ureter due to scar tissue or injury.
Prostate enlargement (BPH): Common in older men, it can block urine flow from the bladder.
Tumors: Growths in or near the urinary tract that press against the ureters.
Congenital defects: Structural problems in babies that affect urine drainage.
Pregnancy: The growing uterus can sometimes press on the ureters, causing temporary hydronephrosis
Symptoms You Shouldn’t Ignore
Hydronephrosis can develop gradually or suddenly, depending on the cause. Common signs include:
Flank or back pain (often on one side)
Difficulty urinating or weak urine flow
Nausea and vomiting
Frequent urge to urinate
Blood in urine (hematuria)
Fever or chills (if infection is present)
Dr. Sumit Bansal emphasizes that even mild symptoms should never be ignored, as untreated hydronephrosis can lead to serious complications like kidney infection or permanent loss of kidney function.
How Hydronephrosis Affects the Kidneys
When urine builds up, it increases pressure inside the kidney. Over time, this pressure can:
Stretch and damage kidney tissues
Reduce blood flow within the kidney
Impair filtering ability
Lead to chronic kidney disease or kidney failure if untreated
That’s why early detection and treatment are key to preventing irreversible damage.
Diagnosis: How It’s Detected
If hydronephrosis is suspected, Dr. Sumit Bansal recommends a series of diagnostic tests such as:
Ultrasound: The most common test to detect kidney swelling
CT Scan or MRI: To identify the exact cause and location of the blockage
Urine and blood tests: To check kidney function and rule out infection
Treatment Options for Hydronephrosis
Treatment depends on the underlying cause and the severity of the condition. Options may include:
Removing the blockage:
Kidney stones can be treated with laser or endoscopic surgery.
Ureteral strictures may require stenting or reconstructive surgery.
Draining excess urine:
In severe cases, a nephrostomy tube may be placed temporarily to drain urine directly from the kidney.Treating infections:
If infection is present, antibiotics are prescribed along with drainage.
Dr. Sumit Bansal, known for his expertise in Minimally Invasive and Robotic Urology Surgery, offers advanced, safe, and effective treatments that ensure faster recovery and better long-term outcomes.
Preventing Kidney Damage
To prevent complications from hydronephrosis:
Stay hydrated
Treat urinary infections promptly
Monitor kidney health with regular check-ups
Seek immediate medical attention for pain or urinary difficulty
When to See a Urologist
If you experience severe back pain, fever, blood in urine, or trouble passing urine, consult a urologist immediately. Early diagnosis and timely intervention by experts like Dr. Sumit Bansal can help protect your kidneys from permanent damage.
Dr. Sumit Bansal is a leading Urologist, Uro-Oncosurgeon, and Kidney Transplant Specialist at Manipal Hospital, Gurugram & Dwarka. With expertise in laparoscopic and robotic urology, he provides comprehensive care for kidney, bladder, and prostate disorders with precision and compassion
📞 Contact: +91 9599 555 945
📍 Location: Manipal Hospital, Gurugram & Dwarka
🌐 Dr. Sumit Bansal – Advanced Urology & Kidney Care Specialist
Final Thoughts
Hydronephrosis is not just a temporary swelling — it’s a warning sign of something deeper. With expert diagnosis and treatment from specialists like Dr. Sumit Bansal, kidney health can be preserved, and serious complications can be avoided.
