Hydronephrosis is a condition where the kidneys become swollen due to the build-up of urine. This can occur for a number of reasons, including blockages in the urinary tract, kidney stones, or other conditions that affect the flow of urine. When left untreated, hydronephrosis can lead to serious complications, so it’s important to be aware of the symptoms and seek medical attention if you experience any of them.
In this article, we’ll discuss the symptoms of hydronephrosis and how they can be identified. Understanding these symptoms can help you recognize when something may be wrong with your kidneys, and seek prompt treatment to avoid potential complications.
1. Flank Pain
One of the most common symptoms of hydronephrosis is flank pain, which is a sharp or dull ache in the back or side. This pain can be intermittent or constant, and may range from mild to severe. The location of the pain can also vary, as it may be felt in the lower back, abdomen, or groin. If you experience persistent flank pain, especially if it’s accompanied by other symptoms, it’s important to see a doctor for evaluation.
2. Frequent Urination
Another symptom of hydronephrosis is frequent urination, where you may feel the need to urinate more often than usual. This can be a result of the kidneys being unable to properly process and excrete urine, leading to an increased need to empty the bladder. In some cases, you may also experience a sense of urgency to urinate, even if you don’t actually need to go.
3. Blood in the Urine
If you notice blood in your urine, it could be a sign of hydronephrosis. This can occur when the swelling of the kidneys causes them to press against the surrounding tissues, leading to small blood vessels being damaged and blood leaking into the urine. Blood in the urine should always be evaluated by a doctor, as it can be a sign of a more serious underlying condition.
4. Nausea and Vomiting
Hydronephrosis can also cause nausea and vomiting, especially if it leads to a backup of urine in the kidneys. This can result in a build-up of waste products in the bloodstream, leading to feelings of nausea and an increased risk of vomiting. If you experience persistent nausea or vomiting, it’s important to seek medical attention to determine the underlying cause.
5. Fever
In some cases, hydronephrosis can lead to a fever, especially if it’s caused by an infection in the urinary tract. A fever may be a sign that the body is fighting off an infection, and can be accompanied by other symptoms such as chills, sweating, and a rapid heartbeat. If you have a fever along with other symptoms of hydronephrosis, it’s important to see a doctor for evaluation and treatment.
6. Abdominal Swelling
Swelling of the abdomen can also occur in cases of hydronephrosis, due to the build-up of urine in the kidneys. This can cause the abdomen to appear distended or enlarged, and may also be accompanied by discomfort or a feeling of fullness. Abdominal swelling should be evaluated by a doctor to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment.
7. Difficulty Urinating
If you have difficulty urinating, it could be a symptom of hydronephrosis. This can occur when the swelling of the kidneys leads to pressure on the bladder or urethra, making it difficult to empty the bladder completely. You may feel a sense of incomplete emptying, or have to strain to urinate. Difficulty urinating should be assessed by a doctor to rule out any serious complications.
8. High Blood Pressure
Hydronephrosis can also lead to high blood pressure, especially if it’s caused by a blockage in the urinary tract. This can occur when the kidneys release hormones that regulate blood pressure, leading to an increase in blood pressure levels. If you have unexplained high blood pressure along with other symptoms of hydronephrosis, it’s important to seek medical evaluation and treatment.
9. Painful Urination
Pain or discomfort when urinating can be a sign of hydronephrosis, especially if it’s caused by inflammation or irritation of the urinary tract. This can manifest as a burning sensation, stinging, or aching in the urethra or bladder when you urinate. If you experience painful urination along with other symptoms, it’s important to see a doctor for assessment and treatment.
10. Changes in Urine Color or Odor
If you notice changes in the color or odor of your urine, it could be a sign of hydronephrosis. This can occur when the kidneys are unable to properly process and eliminate waste products, leading to changes in the appearance and smell of the urine. Changes in urine color, such as it appearing dark or cloudy, or having an unusual odor, should be assessed by a doctor to determine the underlying cause.
