Hydronephrosis: Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment
A clear guide to hydronephrosis, covering causes, diagnosis and treatment to relieve blockage and protect kidney function.
Treatment usually begins with
Specialist Assessment
Ultrasound & Imaging
Procedure to Relieve Blockage
Treatment focuses on identifying and relieving the underlying blockage to protect kidney function.
You may need this evaluated if...
A hydronephrosis evaluation is recommended when these signs appear:
- Flank or back pain
- Reduced urine output
- A finding of kidney swelling on imaging
- Recurrent urinary tract infections
Hydronephrosis is manageable once the underlying cause is identified, and prompt treatment protects long-term kidney health.
What is Hydronephrosis?
Hydronephrosis is swelling of a kidney caused by a build-up of urine, usually due to a blockage somewhere along the urinary tract, and needs prompt evaluation to protect kidney function.
Multiple Causes
Stones, strictures and prostate conditions can all lead to blockage.
Can Be Silent
Some cases cause few symptoms until found on imaging.
Time-Sensitive
Prolonged blockage can affect kidney function if untreated.
Treatable
Identifying and relieving the blockage typically resolves the swelling.
Common Symptoms
- Flank or back pain
- Reduced or altered urine output
- Recurrent urinary tract infections
- Nausea in more severe cases
What Increases Your Risk
A combination of medical, lifestyle and age-related factors can increase the likelihood of this condition.
How It Is Diagnosed
A structured assessment confirms the diagnosis and helps guide the right treatment plan.
Ultrasound
Identifies kidney swelling and often the level of blockage.
CT Scan
Provides detailed imaging to confirm the cause and extent.
Kidney Function Tests
Assess the impact of blockage on kidney health.
Treatment Approaches
Medical Care
- Treatment of the underlying cause where possible
- Temporary drainage in urgent cases to relieve pressure
- Close monitoring of kidney function
Surgical Care
Procedures such as stone removal, stricture correction or pyeloplasty relieve the underlying blockage and restore normal urine drainage.
Treatment decisions are based on symptoms, test results, stone or condition size and overall health, not a single test.
Know When to Act
Recognising these signs early and acting promptly is important for the best outcome.
Book an Assessment
Schedule a consultation for a routine evaluation or ongoing symptoms.
- Kidney swelling found on imaging needing follow-up
- Ongoing flank discomfort
Seek Urgent Care
Call for emergency care immediately if you notice any of the following.
- Severe pain with fever
- No urine output
Not Sure What You Need?
Speak to a Care Guide and we'll help you choose the right urologist.
Talk to Care GuideA care guide can match your condition to the right urologist.
Share your concern or existing reports. We will help you choose the right hospital, doctor and appointment.
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