Kidney & Urinary Tract
Hydronephrosis
Swelling of the kidney caused by a build-up of urine when drainage is blocked or slowed.
Overview
Hydronephrosis is a finding on ultrasound or other imaging, not a disease itself. Causes include stones, strictures, prostate enlargement, pregnancy, or congenital narrowing at the kidney outlet (PUJ obstruction).
Common symptoms
- Often none — found on a scan
- Flank or side pain
- Urinary infection
- Reduced urine output in severe cases
When to see a urologist
Hydronephrosis with pain, fever or a single functioning kidney needs urgent review. Mild, symptom-free swelling still needs a cause to be identified.
This website provides general educational information and is not a substitute for an individual medical consultation. Diagnosis and treatment should be based on assessment by a qualified healthcare professional.