Hydronephrosis to po polsku „hydronefroza”.
Objawy

Hydronefroza to patologiczne poszerzenie układu kielichowo-miedniczkowego nerki spowodowane utrudnionym odpływem moczu, które może występować na różnych poziomach dróg moczowych. Objawy są zróżnicowane i zależą od przyczyny, stopnia oraz czasu trwania niedrożności, obejmując ból w okolicy lędźwiowej, nudności, krwiomocz, zakażenia układu moczowego oraz zaburzenia mikcji. Ostra hydronefroza rozwija się szybko, często w ciągu kilku godzin, i może być spowodowana np. kamicą nerkową, natomiast przewlekła forma rozwija się powoli i może prowadzić do nieodwracalnej utraty funkcji nerek. U dzieci, zwłaszcza niemowląt, hydronefroza często przebiega bezobjawowo, a około 75% przypadków wykrytych prenatalnie ustępuje samoistnie. Klasyfikacja stopnia nasilenia hydronefrozy od I do IV pozwala na odpowiednie planowanie leczenia i monitorowania pacjentów.

Objawy hydronefrozy

Hydronephrosis to po polsku „hydronefroza”. Stanowi ona poszerzenie układu kielichowo-miedniczkowego nerki na skutek utrudnionego odpływu moczu. Hydronefroza nie jest chorobą samą w sobie, lecz stanem patologicznym wynikającym z przeszkody w odpływie moczu, która może występować na różnych poziomach dróg moczowych.12

Charakterystyka objawów

Objawy hydronefrozy są ściśle uzależnione od przyczyny, nasilenia oraz czasu trwania niedrożności dróg moczowych. Co istotne, w wielu przypadkach hydronefroza może przebiegać bezobjawowo, zwłaszcza w początkowej fazie.34

Gdy objawy hydronefrozy występują, mogą obejmować:12

  • Nagły lub intensywny ból w okolicy boków, brzucha lub pleców
  • Nudności lub wymioty
  • Bolesne oddawanie moczu
  • Krew w moczu
  • Zakażenie układu moczowego
  • Niemożność całkowitego opróżnienia pęcherza
  • Oddawanie moczu częściej lub rzadziej niż normalnie

15

Nasilenie objawów może być różne – od łagodnych po ciężkie, w zależności od stopnia i tempa rozwoju niedrożności.43

Ostra i przewlekła hydronefroza

W zależności od czasu rozwoju objawy hydronefrozy można podzielić na dwa typy:67

Ostra hydronefroza

Ostra hydronefroza to najczęstszy typ, w którym objawy rozwijają się szybko, w ciągu kilku godzin. Charakteryzują ją:8

  • Intensywny, silny ból w plecach lub boku (między żebrami a biodrem)
  • Obrzęk lub masa w okolicy brzucha
  • Nudności i wymioty
  • Gorączka
  • Zakażenie układu moczowego
  • Bolesne oddawanie moczu (dysuria)
  • Zwiększone parcie i częstość oddawania moczu

86

Ostra hydronefroza często występuje w wyniku nagłej niedrożności, np. spowodowanej kamieniem nerkowym. W takim przypadku pełny powrót funkcji nerki jest możliwy po usunięciu przeszkody.910

Przewlekła hydronefroza

W przewlekłej hydronefrozie niedrożność odpływu moczu rozwija się powoli, przez tygodnie lub miesiące. W tym przypadku:11

  • Objawy są często nieobecne lub minimalne
  • Może występować tępy ból, który pojawia się i ustępuje
  • Symptomy mogą być takie same jak w ostrej hydronefrozie, ale o łagodniejszym nasileniu
  • Pacjent może mieć objawy niewydolności nerek, które są często niespecyficzne

1112

W przewlekłej hydronefrozie, nawet po usunięciu niedrożności, utrata funkcji nerki może być nieodwracalna.910

Objawy u niemowląt i dzieci

Hydronefroza jest najczęstszym zaburzeniem układu moczowego u niemowląt, dotykającym około 1 na 100 noworodków.1314

U dzieci objawy mogą się różnić w zależności od wieku:1315

  • Niemowlęta i młodsze dzieci:
    • Większość niemowląt z hydronefrozą nie wykazuje żadnych objawów
    • Hydronefroza prenatalna (wykryta przed urodzeniem) zwykle nie powoduje objawów po urodzeniu
    • W ciężkich przypadkach może wystąpić obrzęk brzucha
    • Mogą wystąpić zakażenia układu moczowego z objawami takimi jak gorączka, drażliwość i trudności w karmieniu
  • Starsze dzieci z umiarkowaną lub ciężką hydronefrozą mogą doświadczać:
    • Bólu w okolicy brzucha, pleców lub boku
    • Krwi w moczu (hematuria)
    • Nawracających zakażeń układu moczowego z gorączką
    • Wymiotów i nudności, zwłaszcza po spożyciu dużej ilości płynów

13316

Około 75% przypadków hydronefrozy wykrytych przed urodzeniem ustępuje samoistnie.17

Zakażenia układu moczowego jako objaw hydronefrozy

Jednym z najczęstszych objawów hydronefrozy, szczególnie u dzieci, są zakażenia układu moczowego (ZUM). Ryzyko wystąpienia ZUM wzrasta przy hydronefrozie, ponieważ mocz pozostaje dłużej w układzie moczowym, co sprzyja namnażaniu się bakterii.13

Objawy zakażenia układu moczowego towarzyszącego hydronefrozie to:113

  • Gorączka, dreszcze i uczucie zmęczenia
  • Bolesne lub piekące uczucie podczas oddawania moczu
  • Mętny mocz (nieprzezroczysty)
  • Silne parcie na mocz
  • Bolesne oddawanie moczu
  • Krew lub ropa w moczu
  • Ból pleców lub boku

116

ZUM jest najczęstszym powikłaniem hydronefrozy i może prowadzić do odmiedniczkowego zapalenia nerek (pyelonephritis), czyli zakażenia samej nerki.10

Progresja hydronefrozy

System klasyfikacji stopnia nasilenia

Hydronefroza jest klasyfikowana według stopnia nasilenia, co pomaga w określeniu odpowiedniego leczenia oraz rokowania. Skala waha się od stopnia 1 (najłagodniejszy) do stopnia 4 (najcięższy).1819

  • Stopień I (łagodny): Niewielkie poszerzenie układu kielichowo-miedniczkowego, zwykle ustępuje samoistnie
  • Stopień II (umiarkowany): Bardziej zauważalny obrzęk, może wymagać monitorowania, ale często ustępuje bez interwencji chirurgicznej
  • Stopień III (umiarkowany do ciężkiego): Znaczne poszerzenie układu kielichowo-miedniczkowego wymagające dokładniejszej diagnostyki i monitorowania
  • Stopień IV (ciężki): Znaczny obrzęk nerki z istotnym zmniejszeniem miąższu nerkowego, najczęściej wymaga leczenia chirurgicznego

1820

Naturalna progresja hydronefrozy

Przebieg hydronefrozy zależy od wielu czynników, w tym od przyczyny, stopnia nasilenia i czasu trwania niedrożności:21

  • Łagodna hydronefroza:
    • Często ustępuje samoistnie bez interwencji
    • Wymaga jedynie monitorowania za pomocą regularnych badań USG
    • Rzadko prowadzi do trwałego uszkodzenia nerek
  • Umiarkowana hydronefroza:
    • Może wymagać bardziej intensywnego monitorowania
    • W niektórych przypadkach ustępuje samoistnie, w innych może wymagać leczenia
    • Ryzyko powikłań, takich jak zakażenia układu moczowego, jest zwiększone
  • Ciężka hydronefroza:
    • Wymaga dokładnego monitorowania i często interwencji medycznej
    • Zwiększone ryzyko trwałego uszkodzenia nerek
    • Może prowadzić do powikłań, takich jak zakażenia, ból i krwawienie

212223

U dzieci z hydronefrozą wykrytą prenatalnie monitoring obejmuje zwykle badania ultrasonograficzne co około trzy miesiące w pierwszym roku życia, aby określić stopień hydronefrozy i jej progresję.24

Czasowy przebieg uszkodzenia nerek

Czas trwania niedrożności ma kluczowe znaczenie dla potencjalnego uszkodzenia nerek:1025

  • Krótkotrwała niedrożność (rozwiązana w ciągu 2 tygodni) zwykle pozwala na pełny powrót funkcji nerek
  • Po 6 tygodniach niedrożności funkcja nerki może być nieodwracalnie utracona
  • Przepływ moczu w układzie kielichowo-miedniczkowym powoduje wzrost ciśnienia hydrostatycznego, co prowadzi do zmniejszenia filtracji kłębuszkowej
  • Długotrwała niedrożność prowadzi do atrofii cewek nerkowych i trwałej utraty nefronów

2526

Zwiększone ciśnienie w moczowodzie powoduje również cofanie się moczu do układu żylnego i limfatycznego nerki, co może prowadzić do dalszych powikłań.25

Powikłania nieleczonej hydronefrozy

Nieleczona hydronefroza może prowadzić do szeregu poważnych powikłań:12

Uszkodzenie nerek i niewydolność nerek

Ciężka, nieleczona hydronefroza może prowadzić do trwałego uszkodzenia nerek, a w konsekwencji do niewydolności nerek.14 Mechanizmy uszkodzenia obejmują:10

  • Zwłóknienie śródmiąższowe i atrofię cewek nerkowych
  • Zmniejszenie przepływu krwi przez nerki
  • Znaczne obniżenie wskaźnika filtracji kłębuszkowej (GFR)
  • Zaburzenie zdolności cewek nerkowych do transportu sodu, potasu i protonów
  • Upośledzenie zdolności koncentracji i rozcieńczania moczu

2610

W przypadku jednostronnej hydronefrozy niewydolność nerek jest rzadka, jeśli druga nerka funkcjonuje prawidłowo. Jednak w przypadku obustronnej hydronefrozy lub hydronefrozy jedynej funkcjonującej nerki ryzyko niewydolności nerek jest znacznie większe.27

Nawracające zakażenia układu moczowego

Jak wspomniano wcześniej, hydronefroza zwiększa ryzyko zakażeń układu moczowego. Nieleczone ZUM mogą prowadzić do:28

  • Odmiedniczkowego zapalenia nerek (pyelonephritis) – zakażenia samej nerki
  • Sepsyzakażenia krwi, które może zagrażać życiu
  • Dalszego uszkodzenia nerek – poprzez tworzenie się blizn w tkance nerkowej

1028

Inne powikłania

Długotrwała hydronefroza może również prowadzić do:2930

3132

Rokowanie i odwracalność zmian

Rokowanie w hydronefrozie zależy od kilku czynników:228

  • Wczesna diagnoza i leczenie – wczesne wykrycie i interwencja mają kluczowe znaczenie dla zapobiegania trwałemu uszkodzeniu nerek
  • Stopień nasilenia hydronefrozy – łagodna i umiarkowana hydronefroza ma lepsze rokowanie niż ciężka
  • Przyczyna niedrożności – niektóre przyczyny są łatwiejsze do usunięcia niż inne
  • Czas trwania niedrożności – krótsza niedrożność wiąże się z lepszym rokowaniem
  • Obecność infekcji – zakażenia mogą pogorszyć rokowanie

3321

W większości przypadków, przy odpowiednim leczeniu, pacjenci z hydronefrozą mogą się całkowicie wyleczyć, bez trwałego uszkodzenia nerek. Szacuje się, że przy usunięciu niedrożności wskaźnik pełnego powrotu do zdrowia wynosi około 95%.28

Warto podkreślić, że większość przypadków hydronefrozy wykrytych przed urodzeniem ustępuje samoistnie.34 Hydroneferoza prenatalna ustępuje w około 75% przypadków bez interwencji.17

Odwracalność zmian

Odwracalność zmian w nerkach zależy głównie od czasu trwania niedrożności:925

  • W ostrej hydronefrozie (gdy niedrożność jest szybko usunięta) możliwy jest pełny powrót funkcji nerek
  • W przewlekłej hydronefrozie utrata funkcji nerek może być nieodwracalna, nawet po usunięciu niedrożności
  • Nerki mogą wrócić do normy nawet przy niedrożności trwającej do sześciu tygodni, ale po tym czasie uszkodzenie jest zwykle trwałe

129

Podsumowanie objawów i progresji hydronefrozy

Hydronefroza może przebiegać bezobjawowo lub powodować szereg symptomów, od łagodnego dyskomfortu po silny ból, w zależności od stopnia nasilenia i czasu trwania niedrożności. Najczęstsze objawy to ból w okolicy nerek, zaburzenia oddawania moczu oraz zakażenia układu moczowego.14

Progresja hydronefrozy zależy od przyczyny niedrożności, jej stopnia oraz czasu trwania. Wczesne wykrycie i leczenie mają kluczowe znaczenie dla zapobiegania trwałemu uszkodzeniu nerek.33

W większości przypadków, zwłaszcza przy łagodnej i umiarkowanej hydronefrozie, rokowanie jest dobre, a wielu pacjentów wraca do pełnego zdrowia bez trwałych następstw. Jednak w ciężkich przypadkach lub przy długotrwałej niedrożności może dojść do nieodwracalnego uszkodzenia nerek, co podkreśla znaczenie wczesnej diagnozy i właściwego leczenia.12

Kolejne rozdziały

Zapraszamy do dalszego czytania naszego leksykonu.

Wybierz kolejny rozdział z menu poniżej, aby otworzyć nową podstronę kompedium wiedzy i uzyskać szczegółowe informację o leku, substancji lub chorobie.

  1. 10.04.2026
  2. www.leksykon.com.pl

Materiały źródłowe

  • #1 Hydronephrosis: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment
    https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/15417-hydronephrosis
    Symptoms of hydronephrosis usually depend on the cause. Often, there aren’t any symptoms. Antenatal hydronephrosis in babies doesn’t usually cause symptoms after birth. […] When symptoms occur, they can include: Sudden or intense pain in your sides, abdomen or back. Nausea or vomiting. Painful urination. Blood in your pee. Urinary tract infection (UTI). Being unable to completely empty your bladder. Peeing more or less than normal. […] Your chances of getting a UTI increase if you have hydronephrosis because pee is trapped in your body. This can lead to bacteria growing in your urinary tract. Symptoms of UTI include: Fever, chills and feeling tired. Painful or burning feeling when you pee. Pee that’s cloudy (not clear). […] Severe cases of hydronephrosis can damage your kidneys and lead to kidney failure. If this happens, you may need treatment with dialysis or a kidney transplant. Most people recover from hydronephrosis and don’t cause permanent damage to their kidneys. […] Yes, it can become a serious issue without prompt treatment. However, most cases are mild to moderate and don’t cause serious health problems.
  • #2 Hydronephrosis | National Kidney Foundation
    https://www.kidney.org/kidney-topics/hydronephrosis-0
    Hydronephrosis is a condition that occurs when a kidney swells and can’t get rid of pee (urine) like it should. […] Over time, kidney function can decrease, leading to possible kidney damage. […] Often, hydronephrosis does not cause any symptoms. Although sometimes there may be signs, which can include: Pain in the lower back, side, or belly; Needing to pee a lot or having a hard time peeing; Seeing blood in your pee; Nausea; Fever. […] Severe hydronephrosis can damage the kidneys and lead to kidney failure. If kidney failure occurs, treatment will be needed with either dialysis or a kidney transplant. When treated quickly, most people recover from hydronephrosis.
  • #3 Hydronephrosis: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
    https://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/what-to-know-hydronephrosis
    You may not feel any symptoms of hydronephrosis many patients dont. But some people may notice: […] These symptoms depend on whats causing your hydronephrosis and can range from mild to severe. […] Sometimes, hydronephrosis can lead to a urinary tract infection (UTI). This is because pee stays in your body longer than it should, and bacteria can start to grow. […] Babies born with antenatal hydronephrosis usually dont have any symptoms. But if they have a severe blockage, you might notice some swelling in their abdomen. Some babies might develop a UTI, which could cause symptoms such as fever, irritability, and difficulty feeding.
  • #4 Hydronephrosis – Symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinic
    https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hydronephrosis/symptoms-causes/syc-20575276
    Hydronephrosis often causes no symptoms. But when symptoms happen, they can include: […] People who get symptoms may have side and back pain, painful urination, vomiting and fever. […] In some people, hydronephrosis causes kidney damage over time. […] Without treatment, some people who have severe hydronephrosis develop lasting kidney damage. Rarely, the condition can cause an affected kidney to lose its ability to filter blood, also called kidney failure.
  • #5 Hydronephrosis – Symptoms, Causes, Complications, Treatment PACE Hospitals – Best Hospitals in Hitech City, Hyderabad, India | Near Madhapur, Kukatpally, KPHB, Kondapur, Gachibowli, Jubilee Hills, Banjara HillsPACE Hospitals Contact Numbe
    https://www.pacehospital.com/hydronephrosis-symptoms-causes-complications-treatment-prevention
    Hydronephrosis symptoms can vary depending on the severity and underlying cause of the condition. Many times, hydronephrosis is asymptomatic, some people with hydronephrosis may not experience any symptoms at all, while others may experience a range of symptoms: […] Pain in the lower back, side, or belly […] Needing to urinate a lot or having a hard time to urinate […] Urinary tract infection […] Dysuria (painful urination) […] Haematuria (blood in urine) […] Nausea and vomiting […] Weak urine stream […] Fever. […] Chronic hydronephrosis can cause gradual kidney injury and reduction in renal function. Long-term pressure and stretching on the kidney tissue can decrease its ability to filter blood efficiently.
  • #6 Hydronephrosis – Wikipedia
    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hydronephrosis
    The signs and symptoms of hydronephrosis depend upon whether the obstruction is acute or chronic, partial or complete, unilateral or bilateral. Hydronephrosis that occurs acutely with sudden onset (as caused by a kidney stone) can cause intense pain in the flank area (between the hips and ribs) known as a renal colic. Conversely, hydronephrosis that develops gradually over time will generally cause either a dull discomfort or no pain. Nausea and vomiting may also occur. An obstruction that occurs at the urethra or bladder outlet can cause pain and pressure resulting from distension of the bladder. Blocking the flow of urine will commonly be prone to urinary tract infections which can lead to further development of stones, fever, and blood or pus in the urine. If complete obstruction occurs, a postrenal kidney failure (obstructive nephropathy) may follow.
  • #7 Hydronephrosis: Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment
    https://www.verywellhealth.com/swollen-kidney-and-hydronephrosis-4171499
    Initially, a person with hydronephrosis may not experience any noticeable signs of dysfunction. But, over time, symptoms may appear as the swelling persists, causing notable discomfort. The extent of the symptoms depends on the reason for the blockage and its severity. […] A person with hydronephrosis may not be aware they have the condition. When symptoms are present, they may show up within a range of hours, weeks, or months. Symptoms can include: Flank pain, Pain during urination, Blood in the urine, Fever, Fatigue, Malaise, Nausea, Vomiting, Urinary tract infection (UTI), A persistent urge to urinate, Changes in urinary frequency, Inability to void the bladder completely, Weak urine stream, Incontinence, Failure to thrive in infants. […] In extreme cases, the kidney swelling may be detectable by appearance or palpation (touch). […] If not treated in a timely and appropriate manner, hydronephrosis can damage one or both kidneys and contribute to the development of acute or chronic kidney failure.
  • #8 Hydronephrosis | Texas Children’s
    https://www.texaschildrens.org/content/conditions/hydronephrosis
    Hydronephrosis is caused when urine flow is blocked, making the kidneys swell. Swelling usually affects only 1 kidney (unilateral), but it can affect both (bilateral). This condition can also be accompanied by swelling of the ureter (hydroureter). […] Often many patients have no symptoms associated with their hydronephrosis. A common symptom of hydronephrosis is urinary tract infection (UTI). Patients often mistake a serious urinary infection for the flu. […] Symptoms of UTI may include: painful, burning urination, blood in the urine, weak urine stream, cloudy urine, pain in the back, side, or groin, fever, sweats, chills, and generalized discomfort. […] There are 2 types of hydronephrosis: acute and chronic. […] Acute hydronephrosis: This is the most common type. Symptoms develop quickly over just a few hours. Symptoms can include: intense, severe pain in the back or side (between the ribs and the hip), swelling or mass in the stomach area, nausea and vomiting, fever, UTI, painful urination (dysuria), increased urgency and frequency of urination.
  • #9 Hydronephrosis – Wikipedia
    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hydronephrosis
    Hydronephrosis can either be acute or chronic. In acute hydronephrosis, full recovery of kidney function is seen. However, with chronic hydronephrosis, permanent loss of kidney function is seen even once the obstruction is removed. […] Permanent kidney damage can occur from prolonged hydronephrosis secondary to compression of kidney tissue and ischemia. For example, unilateral hydronephrosis caused by an obstructing stone will likely resolve when the stone passes, and the likelihood of recovery is excellent. Alternately, severe bilateral prenatal hydronephrosis (such as occurs with posterior urethral valves) will likely carry a poor long-term prognosis, because obstruction while the kidneys are developing causes permanent kidney damage even if the obstruction is relieved postnatal.
  • #10 Hydronephrosis and Hydroureter – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK563217/
    If the obstruction is not relieved, it can lead to kidney scarring and permanent kidney damage with the compromise of glomerular and tubular function. […] Hence hydronephrosis can be considered acute if kidney function recovers completely when an obstruction is relieved. […] In contrast, the kidney function does not recover in chronic hydronephrosis even after the obstruction is relieved. […] Prolonged obstruction from hydronephrosis or hydroureter can lead to irreversible kidney damage from tubular atrophy and interstitial fibrosis. […] The overall prognosis of renal recovery after the obstruction is relieved depends on the duration and severity of obstruction. […] Urinary tract infection is the most common complication of hydronephrosis. […] It can further lead to pyelonephritis, infection of the kidney itself.
  • #11 Hydronephrosis | Texas Children’s
    https://www.texaschildrens.org/content/conditions/hydronephrosis
    Chronic hydronephrosis: With chronic hydronephrosis, urine flow blockage develops slowly over weeks or months. This is often painless with few or no symptoms. If there are symptoms, they can be the same as those for acute hydronephrosis (see above) or they may be just be a dull pain that comes and goes. […] If you see signs of hydronephrosis, schedule an appointment with your child’s doctor immediately. Untreated UTIs may lead to more serious conditions such as infection of the kidney and kidney scarring.
  • #12 Hydronephrosis : Symptoms, Causes & Treatment – Apollo Hospital Blog
    https://www.apollohospitals.com/diseases-and-conditions/hydronephrosis-are-your-kidneys-doing-well
    Hydronephrosis may present with sudden pains they can be at the side and the back or abdomen and groin region. It can also occur during urination. […] Symptoms of hydronephrosis depend upon whether the swelling occurs acutely or progresses more gradually. If it is an acute obstruction, symptoms might include nausea, writhing pain and vomiting. […] Chronic hydronephrosis develops over time and often does not display any specific symptoms. The patient may, however, have symptoms of kidney failure which are often nonspecific and may include malaise, weakness, chest pain, leg swelling, shortness of breath, nausea and vomiting. […] If Hydronephrosis remains untreated, it can lead to severe outcomes and complications, leading to permanent kidney damage or failure. This can be resolved if kidney swelling is brought under control. The kidneys will recover even during blockage lasting up to six weeks.
  • #13 Hydronephrosis | Boston Children’s Hospital
    https://www.childrenshospital.org/conditions/hydronephrosis
    Hydronephrosis is a condition, affecting about 1 in 100 babies, where urine overfills or backs up into the kidney, causing the kidney to swell. Infants with hydronephrosis may be diagnosed before (prenatal) or after (postnatal) birth. […] Most babies with hydronephrosis have no symptoms. Older children may also have no symptoms if they have mild or moderate hydronephrosis, and the condition may disappear on its own. […] If your child has moderate to severe hydronephrosis, some symptoms may include: Pain in the abdomen, Pain in the side (flank pain), Blood in the urine (hematuria). […] A child with hydronephrosis may develop a UTI. Symptoms of a urinary tract infection can include the following: Strong urge to use the bathroom, Painful urination, Cloudy urine, Back pain, Fever, Vomiting.
  • #14 Hydronephrosis Signs & Symptoms | Rush | Rush System
    https://www.rush.edu/kids/conditions/hydronephrosis
    Hydronephrosis is the most common urinary tract disorder in babies. […] If hydronephrosis resolves early in life, most children do not suffer any long-term health problems. However, if left untreated, hydronephrosis may cause kidney failure, which can lead to a number of serious health problems.
  • #15
    https://www.parkwayeast.com.sg/conditions-diseases/hydronephrosis/symptoms-causes
    Infants with hydronephrosis may display few or no symptoms. […] Children with moderate to severe hydronephrosis may experience the following: Pain in the abdomen, Back and side pains, Blood in the urine, Persistent urge to urinate, Fever, Vomiting. […] However, there are some cases of hydronephrosis in children that are severe and may lead to complications and other diseases if left untreated. These complications include: Urinary tract infection (UTI). When a child has moderate to severe hydronephrosis, there is a higher risk of developing UTI. Scarring of the kidney. Untreated kidney swelling can negatively affect the child’s kidneys. In the long run, it can cause kidney scarring or permanent kidney damage. High blood pressure. If left untreated, hydronephrosis can lead to hypertension. Kidney failure. In some cases, untreated hydronephrosis can lead to kidney failure, which means the kidneys can no longer function.
  • #16 Pediatric Hydronephrosis – Conditions and Treatments | Children’s National Hospital
    https://www.childrensnational.org/get-care/health-library/hydronephrosis
    Common symptoms of hydronephrosis in children may include: […] Pain in the side or abdomen […] Blood in the urine […] Newborns and infants with hydronephrosis usually show few or no symptoms at all. Older children who have moderate to severe cases may experience: […] Pain in the side or abdomen […] Blood in the urine […] Rarely, infants and children may be more likely to get urinary tract infections, in which symptoms include: […] Persistent feeling of needing to urinate […] Pain in the lower abdomen during urination […] Cloudy or bloody urine […] Back or side pain […] Fever […] Vomiting.
  • #17 Hydronephrosis | Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia
    https://www.chop.edu/conditions-diseases/hydronephrosis-urinary-tract-dilation
    Hydronephrosis can range from mild to severe, depending on the cause of the dilation. […] Many children with hydronephrosis or urinary tract dilation may not have any symptoms. About 75% of hydronephrosis detected before birth will resolve on its own. […] In more severe cases of hydronephrosis, some babies will not have any symptoms, while other children may experience acute kidney pain, bleeding or urinary tract infections, depending on the underlying cause.
  • #18 Hydronephrosis | Conditions | UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospitals
    https://www.ucsfbenioffchildrens.org/conditions/hydronephrosis
    Children with mild and sometimes even moderate hydronephrosis usually don’t have symptoms. […] However, severe hydronephrosis can damage the kidney, resulting in infections, pain and bleeding. Symptoms of urinary infection can include painful urination, cloudy urine, back pain and fever. Nephrosis, or kidney disease, can cause difficulty passing urine, either by being irregular or uncontrolled. […] Hydronephrosis is graded on a scale from zero to four, with one being the mildest form and four the most severe. The degree of hydronephrosis is used to help decide how to treat the condition that’s causing it. More severe grades of hydronephrosis require more extensive tests. For example, grade III and IV hydronephrosis (that are not due to vesicoureteral reflux) typically require a renal scan.
  • #19 Hydronephrosis: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments | LifeMD
    https://lifemd.com/learn/hydronephrosis-causes-symptoms-and-treatments
    Hydronephrosis symptoms usually indicate an underlying condition. Common signs and symptoms associated with its various causes include: […] The rapid onset of swelling can result from a kidney stone obstructing a part of the urinary tract. […] Individuals who experience a rapid onset of hydronephrosis usually feel pain due to the swelling caused by urine accumulation behind the blockage. […] Hydronephrosis often presents without pain or noticeable symptoms, depending on its cause and development timeline. Typically, any pain experienced is not from hydronephrosis itself but rather from the underlying condition causing it. […] A condition frequently occurring alongside hydronephrosis is hydroureter which refers to the swelling and dilation of the ureter. […] Healthcare providers use a specific grading system to assess hydronephrosis, designed to determine the severity of functional tissue loss in kidneys. […] Grades range from 0 (normal function) to 4 (severe hydronephrosis with substantial swelling and structural loss).
  • #20 Hydronephrosis – BetterKids
    https://betterkids.com.au/conditions/hydronephrosis/
    Hydronephrosis is a condition where one or both kidneys become swollen due to a buildup of urine. The term breaks down into “hydro” meaning water and “nephro” meaning kidney. This swelling occurs when urine cannot properly drain from the kidney into the bladder, often due to a blockage or narrowing along the urinary tract. Hydronephrosis in children can range from mild to severe, and in some cases, may require surgical intervention to resolve the blockage. […] Most children with hydronephrosis have no symptoms and experience no pain., especially if it is mild. In newborns and infants, hydronephrosis may be detected through antenatal scans or during routine health checks after birth – not because of any particular symptoms. […] Hydronephrosis in children can vary in severity. In mild hydronephrosis, there is only slight swelling of the kidney due to a small buildup of urine, and this often resolves on its own without intervention. Moderate hydronephrosis involves more noticeable swelling, and while it may require monitoring, it can sometimes resolve without surgery. In severe hydronephrosis, the kidney is significantly swollen due to a larger obstruction or blockage, which can affect kidney function and often requires surgical treatment to prevent long-term damage.
  • #21 Hydronephrosis – BetterKids
    https://betterkids.com.au/conditions/hydronephrosis/
    The treatment for hydronephrosis depends on the severity and the underlying cause of the condition. In most cases, hydronephrosis may resolve on its own without treatment, especially if it was diagnosed during pregnancy. However, in more severe cases where there is a persistent blockage or ongoing kidney swelling, surgery may be required. […] The outlook for children with hydronephrosis depends on the severity of the condition and the underlying cause. Most children with mild hydronephrosis experience full recovery without the need for surgery. Even in more severe cases that require surgical intervention, the long-term outlook is generally positive, with most children having normal kidney function after treatment.
  • #22 Hydronephrosis | Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment
    https://www.cincinnatichildrens.org/health/h/hydronephrosis
    Hydronephrosis Symptoms: Newborns and infants usually dont have any congenital hydronephrosis symptoms. Older children with moderate or severe hydronephrosis may: […] Have frequent urinary tract infections (UTIs) with a fever. […] Have some pain in their side or abdomen area. […] See blood in the urine. […] Hydronephrosis Prognosis: For mild and moderate hydronephrosis, it is very likely the condition will improve over time on its own. It should not cause future damage to the kidneys. For severe hydronephrosis, providers may need to watch it more closely. The goal is to prevent any hydronephrosis complications that put the kidneys at risk.
  • #23 Hydronephrosis | Conditions | UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospitals
    https://www.ucsfbenioffchildrens.org/conditions/hydronephrosis
    The need for surgery depends on the severity of the hydronephrosis and is different for each child. Typically, non-obstructive hydronephrosis and grade I to III hydronephrosis don’t need surgery and resolve over time. Children diagnosed with dilation from ureterovesical junction abnormalities called megaureters rarely, if ever, need surgical repair. Children with grade IV hydronephrosis, the most severe, are the most likely to need surgery to prevent kidney damage and recurrent infection. The surgery to correct hydronephrosis is called pyeloplasty.
  • #24 Hydronephrosis – Children’s Hospital of Orange County
    https://choc.org/programs-services/urology/hydronephrosis/
    Hydronephrosis is monitored at the CHOC Urology Center with ultrasounds. Most children will have an ultrasound completed about once every three months during their first year of life in order for the degree of hydronpehoris and its progression to be properly determined. […] Children with hydronephrosis typically lead normal lives, as most cases of the condition resolve early in their life, often without long-term consequence. Even children with hydronephrosis that does not quickly resolve typically have no kidney damage and will lead normal lives. In some cases, hydronpehrosis that is severe or left untreated may cause some degree of renal failure that may cause long-term complications for the child.
  • #25 Hydronephrosis and Hydroureter: Practice Essentials, Pathophysiology, Etiology
    https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/436259-overview
    Increased ureteral pressure also results in pyelovenous and pyelolymphatic backflow. Gross changes within the urinary tract similarly depend on the duration, degree, and level of obstruction. Within the intrarenal collecting system, the degree of dilation is limited by surrounding renal parenchyma. However, the extrarenal components can dilate to the point of tortuosity. […] To distinguish acute and chronic hydronephrosis, one may consider acute as hydronephrosis that, when corrected, allows full recovery of renal function. Conversely, in chronic hydronephrosis the loss of function is irreversible even with correction of the obstruction. Early experiments with dogs showed that if acute unilateral obstruction is corrected within 2 weeks, full recovery of renal function is possible. However, after 6 weeks of obstruction, function is irreversibly lost.
  • #26 Hydronephrosis and Hydroureter: Practice Essentials, Pathophysiology, Etiology
    https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/436259-overview
    Hydronephrosis can result from anatomic or functional processes interrupting the flow of urine. This interruption can occur anywhere along the urinary tract from the kidneys to the urethral meatus. The rise in ureteral pressure leads to marked changes in glomerular filtration, tubular function, and renal blood flow. The glomerular filtration rate (GFR) declines significantly within hours following acute obstruction. This significant decline of GFR can persist for weeks after relief of obstruction. In addition, renal tubular ability to transport sodium, potassium, and protons and concentrate and to dilute the urine is severely impaired. […] The extent and persistence of these functional insults is directly related to the duration and extent of the obstruction. Brief disruptions are limited to reversible functional disturbance with little associated anatomic changes. More chronic disruptions lead to profound tubular atrophy and permanent nephron loss.
  • #27 Hydronephrosis of one kidney Information | Mount Sinai – New York
    https://www.mountsinai.org/health-library/diseases-conditions/hydronephrosis-of-one-kidney
    Hydronephrosis is swelling of one kidney due to a backup of urine. This problem may occur in one kidney. […] The blockage and swelling of the kidney may occur suddenly or may develop slowly. […] Common symptoms include: Flank pain, Abdominal mass, especially in children, Nausea and vomiting, Urinary tract infection (UTI), Fever, Painful urination (dysuria), Increased urinary frequency, Increased urinary urgency. In some cases, there may be no symptoms. […] Loss of kidney function, UTI, and pain may occur if the condition is left untreated. […] If hydronephrosis is not treated, the affected kidney may be permanently damaged. Kidney failure is rare if the other kidney is working normally. However, kidney failure will occur if there is only one functioning kidney. UTI and pain may also occur.
  • #28 Hydronephrosis: Causes, Symptoms, and Diagnosis
    https://www.healthline.com/health/unilateral-hydronephrosis
    Hydronephrosis typically occurs when a kidney swells due to urine failing to drain properly from the kidney to the bladder. This most commonly affects only one kidney, but can involve both. […] Mild symptoms of hydronephrosis include urinating more frequently and an increased urge to urinate. Other potentially severe symptoms you may experience are: pain in the abdomen or flank, nausea, vomiting, pain when urinating, incomplete voiding, or bladder emptying, a fever. […] If you see signs of hydronephrosis, schedule an appointment with your doctor to talk about your symptoms. Untreated UTIs may lead to more serious conditions such as pyelonephritis, an infection of the kidney, and sepsis, an infection in the bloodstream or blood poisoning. […] If you receive treatment early, your outlook is good. Removal of the obstruction is essential for your kidney to return to normal functioning. If your hydronephrosis requires surgery, the success rate to having a full recovery is estimated at 95 percent.
  • #29 Hydronephrosis and Hydroureter: Practice Essentials, Pathophysiology, Etiology
    https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/436259-overview
    Long-standing hydronephrosis may be associated with obstructive nephropathy and renal failure. Patients with complete or severe partial bilateral obstruction also may develop acute kidney injury or chronic kidney disease. In the latter setting, the patient is often asymptomatic and the urinalysis results may be relatively normal or reveal only a few white or red blood cells. Thus, urinary tract obstruction should be considered in all patients with otherwise unexplained renal insufficiency. The history may be helpful in some cases, possibly revealing symptoms of prostatic enlargement or prior malignancy or renal calculi. […] Urinary stasis may result in infection, renal scarring, calculus formation, and sepsis. […] Hypertension is occasionally induced by obstruction. The mechanism responsible for the elevation in blood pressure varies with the duration and type of obstruction. What remains unclear, however, is why the factors described below result in hypertension in only a minority of obstructed patients:
  • #30
    https://www.mountelizabeth.com.sg/conditions-diseases/hydronephrosis/symptoms-causes
    Infants with hydronephrosis may display few or no symptoms. […] Children with moderate to severe hydronephrosis may experience the following: Pain in the abdomen, Back and side pains, Blood in the urine, Persistent urge to urinate, Fever, Vomiting. […] However, there are some cases of hydronephrosis in children that are severe and may lead to complications and other diseases if left untreated. These complications include: Urinary tract infection (UTI). When a child has moderate to severe hydronephrosis, there is a higher risk of developing UTI. […] Untreated kidney swelling can negatively affect the child’s kidneys. In the long run, it can cause kidney scarring or permanent kidney damage. […] If left untreated, hydronephrosis can lead to hypertension. […] In some cases, untreated hydronephrosis can lead to kidney failure, which means the kidneys can no longer function.
  • #31 Hydronephrosis and Hydroureter: Practice Essentials, Pathophysiology, Etiology
    https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/436259-overview
    Acute, unilateral obstruction can cause hypertension via activation of the renin-angiotensin system; renal vein renin studies lateralize the increase in renin secretion to the obstructed kidney, a finding similar to that in unilateral renal artery stenosis. […] Renin secretion is usually normal in patients with bilateral urinary tract obstruction or obstruction of a solitary functioning kidney. In this condition, renal failure leading to volume expansion is typically present; the elevation in blood pressure is probably volume mediated and resolves with the diuresis following correction of the obstruction. […] The plasma renin activity is also typically normal in chronic unilateral obstruction, and the presence of the contralateral healthy kidney prevents both renal failure and fluid retention. Furthermore, relief of the obstruction may not correct the hypertension. These observations suggest that the kidney may have incurred some permanent damage and that the elevation in blood pressure is unrelated to the renal disease.
  • #32 Hydronephrosis and Hydroureter: Practice Essentials, Pathophysiology, Etiology
    https://emedicine.medscape.com/article/436259-overview
    Postobstructive diuresis refers to polyuria that occurs after relief of obstruction. Patients with edema, congestive heart failure, hypertension, weight gain, and azotemia are most likely to exhibit this condition. It is more common in patients with chronic obstruction. Postobstructive diuresis is usually clinically significant only in patients whose obstruction involves both kidneys or a unilateral obstruction of a solitary functioning kidney.
  • #33 Hydronephrosis in Newborns – NIDDK
    https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/urologic-diseases/hydronephrosis-newborns
    Hydronephrosis may be a sign of a blockage in the urinary tract or reflux of urine from the bladder to the kidney that needs treatment. […] The more severe hydronephrosis is, the more likely it is to be a sign of a blockage in the urinary tract or reflux of urine from the bladder to the kidney, which may need treatment. Early diagnosis and treatment of the blockage or reflux may help prevent complications or prevent complications from getting worse. […] After an infant is born, hydronephrosis may lead to complications such as urinary tract infections, kidney stones, and chronic kidney disease. […] Newborns with hydronephrosis often do not show signs. In some newborns, the abdomen may be swollen due to severe blockage of the urinary tract. In other cases, newborns with hydronephrosis may develop a urinary tract infection, which may cause signs or symptoms. […] If hydronephrosis in a newborn is not severe and not likely to damage the kidneys, health care professionals may recommend watchful waiting. […] However, if hydronephrosis gets worse or causes complications, a health care professional may recommend surgery.
  • #34 Hydronephrosis in Newborns: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment
    https://www.healthline.com/health/hydronephrosis-in-newborns
    Hydronephrosis in newborns is an enlargement or swelling of the kidneys. […] If the hydronephrosis does not resolve before birth, symptoms that could appear include abdominal swelling, which would indicate a severe blockage of the urinary tract, and urinary tract infection (UTI), which include symptoms include fever, abdominal pain, or foul-smelling urine. […] Once the infant is born, unresolved hydronephrosis could lead to kidney stones, urinary tract infections, and chronic kidney disease. […] The outlook for newborns with hydronephrosis is usually good. Most cases of hydronephrosis are mild and will resolve in time without treatment. […] If the condition is not monitored or treated, hydronephrosis complications can include urinary tract infections, kidney stones, and, in severe untreated instances, chronic kidney disease.