What Is Kidney Enlargement (Hydronephrosis)?

Kidney enlargement (hydronephrosis) is a condition in which the kidney fills with urine and enlarges because the urine produced by the kidney cannot flow normally into the bladder. It is not a disease in itself, but rather a symptom of another underlying problem. It should not be ignored, as it can lead to permanent damage to kidney function if not diagnosed early.

AsProf. Dr. Volkan İzol, when I see patients diagnosed withhydronephrosis, I first investigate the cause of the kidney enlargement and then plan the most appropriate treatment to preserve kidney function.

What Causes Kidney Enlargement (Hydronephrosis)?

Kidney enlargement can result from many different causes that obstruct urine flow. The most common causes we encounter are as follows:

  • Kidney or ureter stones
  • Ureteral strictures
  • Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)
  • Obstructions of the Bladder Outlet
  • Congenital urinary tract strictures
  • Pressure from the uterus on the urinary tract during pregnancy
  • Kidney or urinary tract tumors

While hydronephrosis in children is most often caused by congenital factors, in adults, kidney stones and an enlarged prostate are the primary causes.

What Are the Symptoms of Kidney Enlargement?

Mild hydronephrosis may sometimes cause no symptoms and may be detected incidentally during an ultrasound. However, in more advanced cases, the following symptoms may occur:

  • Pain in the side or lower back
  • Blood in the Urine
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Fever and chills (when an infection develops)
  • Frequent urination
  • Difficulty urinating

Sudden, severe pain may be a sign of hydronephrosis, particularly when caused by a kidney stone.

How Is Kidney Enlargement Diagnosed?

The first-line diagnostic method for hydronephrosisis generallya urinary system ultrasound. However, additional tests may be needed to determine the underlying cause.

Among these are:

  • Urinalysis
  • Blood tests (creatinine and kidney function)
  • Computed Tomography (CT)
  • MRI urography when indicated
  • Assessment of Kidney Function Using Scintigraphy

may be included.

Can Hydronephrosis Be Treated?

Yes. Treatment is planned entirely based on the underlying cause.

For example;

  • Removal of kidney stones,
  • Surgical repair of ureteral stricture,
  • Medication or surgical treatment for an enlarged prostate,
  • In cases where urine flow is severely impaired, it may be necessary to temporarily placea DJ stentor performa nephrostomy.

The goal of treatment is not only to relieve pain but also to preserve kidney function.

When Should You Seek Emergency Care?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, you should seek medical attention immediately:

  • Severe flank pain
  • Inability to urinate, accompanied by fever and chills
  • Heavy bleeding in the urine
  • Unbearable pain accompanied by nausea and vomiting
  • Sudden pain in people with only one kidney

These situations may require immediate action.

Conclusion

Kidney enlargement (hydronephrosis) is a condition that is largely treatable when diagnosed early. However, if treatment is delayed, permanent loss of kidney function may occur. AsProf. Dr. Volkan İzol, my primary goal for patients diagnosed with hydronephrosis is to identify the underlying cause and develop a personalized treatment plan that will best protect the kidney. Early diagnosis is the most important step in preserving healthy kidneys.