How to cure hydronephrosis of the kidneys without surgery. hydronephrosis

Hydronephrosis of the kidneys, what is it? This is a pathological process that can lead to a violation of the outflow of urine against the background of stretching of the pyelocaliceal system.

The disease leads to kidney damage (left or right) or transformation. The outflow of urine is disturbed, vascular compression occurs, atrophy of the renal tissues and deterioration of functionality as a result of excessive pressure in the cups.

Often only one kidney is affected. The disease happens:

  • congenital with an incorrect location of the urinary canal or obstruction;
  • acquired against the background of the development of inflammatory processes in the genitourinary system, localization of the tumor in the uterus, urinary tract, in the peritoneal cavity.

With congenital hydronephrosis, the natural outflow of urine is impaired due to anatomical features or abnormal. Hydronephrosis has three stages:

  • during the first stage, the renal pelvis is slightly dilated, but functions stably;
  • at the second stage, there is an increase in the diameter of the kidneys, thinning of the walls;
  • during the third stage - an excessive increase in the kidneys by 2 times, when renal failure is already diagnosed.

Why does pathology develop?

Hydronephrotic transformation of the kidney is observed when the passage is narrowed in one of the segments of the urinary system. There are many reasons for this. Provoking factors include:

  • urolithiasis, when the outflow of urine is disturbed against the background of the accumulation of stones in the kidneys or urinary tract;
  • lymphoma, lymphadenopathy, prostate adenoma, which can lead to inflammation in the urethra, changes in structures;
  • tuberculosis;
  • abdominal trauma when the ureter is involved in the process;
  • congenital anomalies in the structure of the ureter when the diameter deviates from the norm;
  • localization in neighboring organs, which led to compression of the urinary organs, impaired urine outflow.

Timely detection and treatment of pathology is required, because, otherwise, complications are inevitable.

How is it manifested?

Chronic hydronephrosis at the initial stage practically does not manifest itself in any way, and there are no symptoms. At times there is:

  • feeling of heaviness in the ureter, incomplete emptying of the bladder even after urination;
  • tingling;
  • dull aching pain in the lower back;
  • signs of flatulence;

  • nausea fast;
  • fatigue;
  • temperature rise;
  • increase in blood pressure.

With hydronephrosis or dropsy of the kidney, the main symptom is pain in the lumbar region, depending on the localization of hydronephrosis and the characteristics of the course of the pathology.

Hydronephrosis of the right kidney is more often diagnosed in people who abuse alcohol, as well as in the elderly. In the pathology of the left kidney, blockage of the outflow tract is observed with the accumulation of stones in the urinary canal. Hydronephrosis of the left kidney is more common in childhood.

In this case, the following symptoms are observed:

  • back pain on the left radiating to the left leg;
  • violation of the outflow of urine;
  • discharge of a cloudy color in case of injury to the mucous membrane.

In a special way, hydronephrosis occurs in pregnant women and children. This is a frequent occurrence in the abnormal development of the urinary tract, when the kidneys at the time of pregnancy and fetal growth begin to work in an enhanced mode. The body begins to compensate for the work of the kidneys, the following symptoms appear in women:

  • jumps in blood pressure;
  • puffiness;
  • an increase in the size of the kidney, which can lead to compression in the uterus during the development of late preeclampsia;
  • impaired blood supply and blood flow to the fetus, which can lead to intrauterine growth retardation, the birth of a child already with a congenital pathology.

Effects

Hydronephrotic transformation of the right kidney prevents the development of pyelonephritis,. During the diagnosis, the level of urea and creatinine in the blood is increased.

The disease poses a threat to the lives of women, sometimes doctors, when diagnosing bilateral hydronephrosis, even before conception (when only one kidney functions and the disease cannot be treated), suggest an abortion.

In childhood, congenital hydronephrosis is observed in 90% of cases and against the background of a defect in the development of the genitourinary system. If the cause of the pathology is a hereditary predisposition when a special antigen appears in the genotype, then the symptoms of hydronephrosis in a child appear more pronounced.

If possible, the doctor will definitely try to restore the functionality of the organ. In this case, for the reconstruction of the affected kidney, the following methods are applicable:

  • ureteropyeloectasia;
  • patchwork operation;
  • endothermic by cutting strictures;
  • through plastic manipulation.

With hydronephrotic transformation of the left kidney, either removal is performed in cases where recovery is no longer possible. To restore the patency of the urinary tract, the doctor during the operation will try to normalize the size of the renal pelvis or perform plastic surgery with excessive expansion of the walls.

If the cause of hydronephrosis is the development of a malignant tumor, then the neoplasm is first removed, then a course of chemotherapy is prescribed. In the third - last stage of hydronephrosis, most likely, the kidney can no longer be restored.

Maintenance therapy is required. Diet in hydronephrosis plays a predetermining role when the renal pelvis is overly expanded. It is necessary to exclude salt, coffee from the diet and drink less liquid (up to 1.5 liters). It is advisable to prepare dishes for a couple.

Effects

With the appearance of hydronephrosis of the kidneys, all patients want to understand what it is. This is dropsy and it is dangerous because excessive violation of the outflow of urine leads to the accumulation of stones. Their accumulation clogs the ducts, leads to severe poisoning of the body, and often the kidney ruptures if the contents enter the retroperitoneal space.

As a result, pyelonephritis, urolithiasis, will begin to develop as a complication. In case of stagnation of urine will develop.

How is hydronephrosis of the kidney treated? Only detection and treatment at the initial stage gives quite favorable forecasts. Is it worth it to delay, to refuse treatment at the initial stage or from the operation? The outcome of the disease - if you do not pull, doctors guarantee a complete cure for the disease.

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Hydronephrosis of the kidney is a specific disease characterized by a pathological increase in the internal size of the pyelocaliceal region of the kidneys due to strong pressure on its walls of a large volume of fluid (urine excreted by the kidneys). In this article, you will learn what signs pathology accompanies, how to treat hydronephrosis of the kidneys with modern methods, what else can be done.

What is kidney disease called hydronephrosis? Hydronephrotic transformation of the kidney or hydronephrosis of the kidneys is a serious pathology, consisting in an increased content of fluid in both or one kidney. The normal outflow of urine is disturbed, and this leads to inflammation of the renal tissue - the parenchyma, with its subsequent atrophy and deterioration of the filtering and excretory function of the kidney.

As a result of this, partial, and then, with the progression of the disease, complete renal failure may occur at first.

In medical practice, both hydronephrosis of the right and left kidneys are equally common. As for bilateral hydronephrosis, it is recorded in 5-9% of detected cases. Hydronephrosis can be not only congenital, but also acquired. Moreover, congenital hydronephrosis occurs against the background of urinary tract dyskinesia, an anomaly in the placement of the renal artery (possibly its branches), which compresses the ureter.

Causes of hydronephrosis

The disease develops due to a violation or absolute cessation of the movement of urine from the kidney to the bladder, which occurs due to a number of physiological or anatomical factors. An additional renal vessel passing to the bottom of the kidney from the aorta can also cause the disease. This additional vessel is located crosswise with the ureter and presses on it, which leads to narrowing.

A factor provoking the development of hydronephrosis of the kidneys is an obstacle to the natural outflow of urine from the organ. The reason for this can be any pathological process that occurs both in the kidney and outside it - in nearby organs and tissues:

  • stricture (narrowing) of the urinary tract,
  • congenital or acquired;
  • various stones in the genitourinary system;
  • benign neoplasms;
  • malignant tumors;
  • retroperitoneal fibrosis.

As a result of urinary retention and expansion of the calyces and pelvis of the kidney, the parenchyma and muscle fibers of the organ atrophy. This leads to a deterioration in the functioning of the kidney, up to a complete loss of function.

Depending on the causes of the development of the disease, its forms are distinguished:

  1. Congenital - hydronephrosis develops in utero or immediately after birth.
  2. Acquired - hydronephrosis appears as a result of damage to a previously healthy kidney.

The acquired form of hydronephrosis can have both anatomical causes of a violation of the outflow of urine from the renal pelvis, and physiological (arising against the background of diseases of the central and peripheral nervous system).

In total, there are five main groups of pathological conditions that create mechanical obstacles of anatomical nature in the urinary system:

  • Thickening of the walls of the ureter or pelvis as a result of tumors.
  • The presence of tumors in surrounding organs and tissues that compress the ureter, kidney or urethra.
  • Violation of the normal location of the ureter or kidney (omission of the kidney, bending or torsion of the ureter).
  • Overlapping of the internal lumen of the ureter and pelvis with formed kidney stones.
  • Compression or damage to the lower organs of the urinary system as a result of cancer and other diseases or injuries.

Quite often, women develop hydronephrosis during pregnancy. Its cause is mechanical compression of the ureter and other organs of the urinary system by an enlarged uterus.

Degrees of the disease

Doctors share several degrees of development of this disease, which have individual characteristics.

Hydronephrosis is also classified according to the type of development. If the disease is complicated by an attached infection, then it proceeds according to the infected type. If not, such a disease proceeds aseptically, the symptoms in these two cases will differ somewhat.

Symptoms of hydronephrosis

In the photo on the left is a healthy kidney, and on the right is hydronephrosis

Often the development of hydronephrosis of the kidneys goes unnoticed. The disease has no specific symptoms. In the early stages, the clinical picture is due to the cause that caused the development of hydronephrosis. For example, with urolithiasis, attacks of renal colic may occur, characterized by severe acute pain along the ureters.

As the pathology progresses, the patient complains of the following problems:

  • dull back pain
  • independent of the time of day and position of the body;
  • painful sensations are most pronounced in the area of ​​the affected kidney: if the left side of the lower back hurts, then the left kidney is affected and vice versa;
  • in some cases, pain appears in the right side of the abdomen;
  • the pain is often accompanied by nausea and vomiting.

If hydronephrosis of the kidneys progresses, and no treatment is provided, then the following symptoms of hydronephrosis appear:

  • pronounced pain from the problem kidney;
  • pain attack is accompanied by nausea, in some cases - vomiting;
  • blood pressure rises;
  • flatulence increases, the patient complains of discomfort due to bloating;
  • when the infection enters the kidney, the body temperature rises - the most dangerous sign;
  • blood is present in the urine - this applies to those patients who have been diagnosed with urolithiasis.

Hydronephrosis of the left kidney

Hydronephrosis of the left kidney is one of the most common complications of urolithiasis, which can also occur on the right side. Hydronephrosis of the left kidney increases the internal pressure of the calyces and pelvis. The walls of these organs “fight” with high pressure for some time. Unable to withstand the pressure, the pressure gradually acts on the kidney itself, which in turn prevents urine from being excreted. Such a process can affect the tissues of the left kidney. The tubules and glomeruli atrophy and shrivel. As a result, the layer of the organ in which urine was formed decreases.

The first symptoms of urinary stasis are: sharp pains in the lateral part of the abdomen, radiating to the leg on the side of the lesion. If hydronephrosis of the left kidney is observed, then the pain will also radiate to the back.

Symptoms of hydronephrosis of the left kidney:

  1. pain in the kidneys, aggravated to the damaged area;
  2. nervous excitement, anxiety;
  3. symptoms of intoxication of the body with nitrogenous products - loss of appetite, dizziness, migraines, vomiting and nausea, insomnia;
  4. back pain that radiates to the groin and under the shoulder blades;
  5. pain in the abdomen (stretching of the walls of the ureter under the size of the stone);
  6. a small amount of urine excreted per day.
  7. Small amounts of mucus and blood may also appear when urinating.

With untimely diagnosis, as well as unqualified treatment, the tissues of the left kidney can be severely damaged. This process leads to a partial loss of organ functionality or even to a complete loss of the ability to perform its functions.

Hydronephrosis of the right kidney

Hydronephrosis of the right kidney must be treated. If this is not done, kidney failure may develop. Stopping the work of the kidney can lead to intoxication and end in the death of the patient. Another possible outcome is urolithiasis, which can be aggravated by infection. The most common complication in this case is rupture of the calyx.

Depending on the level at which the long-term blockage took place, hydronephrosis of the right kidney occurs with various symptoms. The most common cause is urolithiasis. Urinary stones that are larger than the natural pathways of the excretory system get stuck in places of constriction, and therefore completely or partially disrupt the outflow of urine.

Symptoms and signs:

  1. At the initial stage of the disease, a person usually complains of renal colic; in the evening, as a rule, there is a dull pain in the lumbar region, which disappears by night.
  2. Attacks can be caused by physical exertion or general overwork.
  3. The presence of blood in the urine is observed with increased pressure in the cups, as well as in the presence of kidney stones.
  4. Another characteristic feature is an enlarged kidney. In people with an asthenic physique, it can even be felt through the front wall of the abdomen.

Most cases of hydronephrosis (more than half) have a left-sided localization, in about 40% of cases the pathology affects the right kidney, and only 5% of hydronephrotic transformation is bilateral.

Complications

A dangerous complication of hydronephrotic transformation is renal failure and atrophy. Due to changes in tissues, the kidney loses its functionality, and death occurs from intoxication with metabolic products.

Due to renal dysfunction in the blood, the content of residual nitrogen and other substances that are normally excreted through the kidneys with urine increases.

To avoid fatal intoxication, patients are shown the removal of the affected organ, after which patients undergo hemodialysis procedures with an artificial kidney machine or transplant an organ from a donor.

Diagnostics

During the examination, the doctor can preliminarily diagnose hydronephrosis through palpation. In the area of ​​​​the organ there is a seal. The symptoms of the patient and the general state of his health are also taken into account.

Ultrasound of the kidneys with hydronephrosis

For an accurate diagnosis, instrumental and laboratory tests are prescribed:

  • general analysis of urine and blood;
  • Ultrasound of the kidneys;
  • If the results of previous examinations are ambiguous, the patient may be referred for MRI or CT.

Hardware diagnostic methods help to determine and compare on which side there is, or kidney damage predominates. So hydronephrosis of the right kidney has a larger size of the pelvic region compared to a healthy left kidney. Or vice versa, hydronephrosis of the left kidney has a large pelvis compared to the right kidney.

There are also many additional methods by which pathology is detected. But they are not that common. The expediency of using one or another individually or many in combination is determined by the attending physician.

Treatment of hydronephrosis of the kidney

The course of treatment that the doctor will select has three directions: relieving symptoms, eliminating the cause, and reducing the load on the kidneys. The goal of treating hydronephrosis is to:

  • remove accumulated urine and reduce the pressure exerted by it on the kidneys;
  • prevent irreversible deformation;
  • eliminate the cause of hydronephrosis.

Medical treatment

Often, the use of drugs precedes the operation. At this stage, the symptoms of hydronephrosis are eliminated, urination is stimulated, and side pathological processes, such as foci of infection, are removed.

The doctor may prescribe the following drugs:

  1. painkillers - to relieve pain in the patient;
  2. antibiotics - if there are signs of infection in the body;
  3. drugs that lower blood pressure; anti-inflammatory drugs;
  4. other medicines, depending on the patient's symptoms.

If the condition of the kidney worsens over time, then hydronephrosis should be treated with surgical intervention.

There are two types of operations aimed at improving function in hydronephrosis:

  1. creation of an additional channel for the exit of urine,
  2. narrowing of the dilated pelvicalyceal system of the kidney.

As a rule, radical surgery is preceded by drainage of the kidney. They are also used to treat hydronephrosis during pregnancy, which is caused by compression of the ureter by the growing uterus.

Brief description and features

Not the last place in the treatment is diet. The diet is prescribed by the doctor individually. Nutrition should be such as to help restore the flow of urine and kidneys.

The following foods should be excluded from the daily diet:

  • salty;
  • fatty;
  • smoked;
  • sweets;
  • alcohol;
  • fried meat and spicy dishes.
  • vegetables and fruits;
  • dairy;
  • proteins.

How to treat hydronephrosis folk remedies

Treatment with folk remedies involves the use of various herbs and medicinal preparations that improve kidney function and alleviate the condition of patients with hydronephrosis. For this, apply:

  1. Pumpkin, namely the stalks. To prepare the medicine, the stalks are crushed, 500 ml of boiled water is poured and infused in a water bath for 20 minutes. After this, the infusion must be removed, wrapped in a warm towel and infused for about 2 hours. Take 4 times a day for half a cup per reception.
  2. 150 gr. birch leaves, 50 gr. nettle leaves, 50 gr. adonis herbs, 50 gr. oat grains, 50 gr. bearberry and 50 gr. field horsetail.
  3. Blackcurrant leaves, raspberry leaves, calamus roots, kidney tea, string grass, chamomile flowers are taken in equal proportions.
  4. Herbs for hydronephrosis are used in the form of fees, which are recommended to be consumed no longer than 3-4 months. It is necessary to change fees, after each course, after waiting about 2 weeks. Plant infusions are taken on an empty stomach, about half an hour before meals.
  5. Chopped parsley root, 1 tbsp. l., pour 100 ml of boiling water. Means insist all night. Gently drain the liquid in the morning and drink 1 tbsp. l. on an empty stomach during the same day. If it is not possible to purchase the roots of the plant, seeds can also be used. However, they give a less pronounced positive result. In the same way, you can prepare infusions for hydronephrosis from cumin seeds.

Prevention

Hydronephrosis of the kidneys, if acquired, occurs only under certain conditions. Doctors recommend taking the following preventive measures to avoid its development:

  • empty the bladder in time - frequent artificial retention of urine can lead to the fact that part of it will splash back into the pelvis;
  • limit the use of salt and water - a violation of the salt and water balance leads to excessive production of urine in the kidneys;
  • avoid hypothermia - this can provoke the development of inflammatory processes in the genitourinary system.

Hydronephrosis or hydronephrotic transformation is a disease of the kidney, in which its pelvis and calyces expand, the renal tissue becomes thinner (hypotrophic), and all the basic functions of the kidney are disrupted.

Why is this happening The outflow of urine from the calyces and pelvis of the kidney is disturbed. Blood circulation is disturbed in the kidney tissue. If hydronephrosis also accompanies the expansion of the ureter, ureterohydronephrosis occurs. In women, hydronephrosis occurs one and a half times more often than in men and quite often occurs in children. It is generally accepted that hydronephrosis is:

  • congenital, primary (occurs due to abnormal development of the upper urinary tract);
  • acquired, secondary hydronephrosis becomes a complication of any disease.

Hydronephrosis can get worse if the infection joins. The development of hydronephrosis occurs if there is an obstruction to the outflow of urine in any part of the urinary tract:

  • obstruction in the bladder and urethra (due to narrowing of the urethra, prostate adenoma, stones in the urethra, in the bladder, tumors);
  • obstruction in the ureters (with chronic cystitis with narrowing of the outlet sections of the ureters, cancer, tuberculosis, prostate adenoma, kidney cyst, tumors in organs and tissues near the ureters, intestinal diseases, the consequences of surgical interventions on the abdominal organs, anomalies of the renal arteries);
  • twisting, bending of the ureters;
  • narrowing of the lumen of the ureters from the inside (spurs, valves on the inner membrane of the ureters, blind protrusion of the wall of the ureter - diverticulum).

How does hydronephrosis develop?

The disease matures gradually. At the first stage First, urine accumulates in the renal pelvis. The pelvis is stretched due to increased pressure. For a short time, the walls of the pelvis are able to resist excessive stretching, the function of the kidney suffers little. But little by little, the pelvis stretches more and more, the wall becomes thinner, the second stage comes. At the second stage The pelvis (pyeloectasia) and the calyx (hydrocalicosis) of the kidney expand. The distended pelvis compresses the renal tissue and pushes it to the periphery. The renal tissue is compressed between the dense tissue of the kidney capsule and its distended pelvis. Kidney function is significantly impaired. At the third stage The kidney tissue atrophies sharply, the tissue becomes thinner, the kidney function drops sharply, and at the final stage the kidney ceases to function.

How does hydronephrosis manifest?

At the initial stages, hydronephrosis does not manifest itself in any way. It can be detected if an infection has occurred or completely by accident during X-ray and ultrasound studies. There are no symptoms characteristic only of hydronephrosis. The patient is concerned about:

  • lower back pain;
  • aching pain of a permanent nature;
  • kidney pain;
  • renal colic;
  • an enlarged kidney is palpated through the anterior abdominal wall;
  • blood in the urine (hematuria).

How is hydronephrosis diagnosed?

When diagnosing hydronephrosis,:

  • comprehensive examination;
  • blood analysis;
  • Analysis of urine;
  • ultrasound examination of the kidneys (look at the thickness of the kidney tissue, the size and increase in the pelvis and calyces of the kidney, the degree of expansion);
  • the state of the kidney vessels is studied by the method of color Doppler mapping;
  • an x-ray examination diagnoses the presence of stones in the urinary tract, an enlarged kidney;
  • radioisotope study - to determine the degree of impaired renal function;
  • angiography;
  • computed and magnetic resonance imaging.

How is hydronephrosis treated?

Treatment is directed at the cause that causes hydronephrosis to develop. Conservative treatment usually proves to be ineffective. It is used:

  • with an inflammatory process in the kidneys;
  • to lower blood pressure;
  • to relieve pain;
  • to eliminate the symptoms of renal failure;
  • in preparation for surgery.

During surgical treatment reconstruction of the renal-pelvic system is carried out - usually in a low-traumatic way. Various manipulators and an endoscope with a video camera are introduced into the abdominal cavity with the help of several punctures. Under the control of the video image on the monitor screen, the necessary surgical intervention is performed. The kidney is removed only when the function of the kidney has already been lost.

Hydronephrosis of the kidneys - the main symptoms:

  • Lower back pain
  • Weakness
  • Elevated temperature
  • Nausea
  • Frequent urination
  • Lower abdominal pain
  • Bloating
  • Blood in the urine
  • High blood pressure
  • Kidney pain
  • Renal colic
  • Feeling of heaviness in the kidneys

Hydronephrotic transformation or hydronephrosis of the kidney is an ailment, as a result of which pathological stretching of the pyelocaliceal system begins. The pathological process is due to the fact that the process of urine outflow is disturbed in the kidneys. As a rule, the disease affects only one kidney. Young women are most susceptible to the disease.

Initially, it is worth noting that there are congenital hydronephrosis and acquired. Congenital hydronephrosis can occur as a result of such factors:

  • obstruction of the urinary tract;
  • wrong channel position.

As for the acquired form of this kidney disease, then, as a rule, it can develop against the background of such diseases:

  • inflammatory processes in the urinary tract;
  • urolithiasis disease;
  • tumors of the uterus, urinary tract, prostate and ovaries;
  • metastases, malignant processes in the abdominal cavity;
  • spinal cord injuries that lead to disruption of the natural outflow of urine.

In addition, violations of the process of natural outflow of urine may be due to anatomical features.

Stages of development

There are three stages of hydronephrosis of the left (right) kidney:

  • compensated stage - at this stage, urine accumulates in the pelvic system in small quantities. Kidney functions are preserved almost completely.
  • hydronephrosis of the 2nd degree - there is a strong thinning of the tissue, which leads to a decrease in the efficiency of the organ by 40%;
  • the third stage - the body almost completely fails to cope with its functions, chronic renal failure occurs.

Symptoms

At an early stage of the development of the disease, there are practically no symptoms. In some cases, the patient may complain of the following symptoms:

  • colic;
  • more frequent urination, which does not bring proper relief;
  • a feeling of heaviness in the area of ​​​​the organ.

As congenital or acquired hydronephrosis develops, dull, aching pain in the lumbar region may be felt. Localization of pain depends on which kidney is affected. The following symptoms can be observed:

  • lower abdominal pain;
  • weakness;
  • elevated temperature;
  • nausea;
  • bouts of pain in the area of ​​the location of organs;
  • bloating;
  • increased blood pressure.

If the patient has a fever (more than 37 o C), then this indicates the beginning of the infectious process, especially when there is a suspicion of hydronephrosis in children.

In some cases, the patient does not experience the above symptoms, except for one - urine mixed with blood. Such a violation requires immediate examination by a doctor.

Hydronephrosis of the left kidney

Hydronephrosis of the left kidney is one of the most common diseases of the genitourinary system. The main provoking factor is a stone that can block the outflow of urine. In this case, if the stone enters the urinary canal, bilateral hydronephrosis is considered.

The first and most common symptom in this disease is pain on the left side, which radiates to the leg. There is also a painful outflow of urine mixed with blood and mucus. In some cases, the patient cannot urinate, although the urge to urinate is present.

With such symptoms, you should immediately consult a doctor for an accurate diagnosis and immediate treatment. Operation is almost always prescribed.

Hydronephrosis of the right kidney

Hydronephrosis of the right kidney is a urological disease that is caused by blockage of the urinary tract. The main risk group is the elderly and those who abuse alcohol.

Symptoms of hydronephrosis of the right kidney are the same as with the localization of the pathological process in the region of the left kidney. The only difference is that with hydronephrosis of the right kidney, pain radiates to the entire lower back.

Hydronephrosis in children

As a rule, hydronephrosis in children is a congenital disease. Such a pathology can occur in newborns if hydronephrosis was diagnosed during pregnancy. In newborns, pathology often affects both kidneys at the same time.

With the help of special diagnostics, hydronephrosis in the fetus can be diagnosed. Therefore, the congenital form of hydronephrosis in children is diagnosed much more often.

Hydronephrosis in the fetus and the reasons for the development of such a pathology in him can be determined even in the early lines, which makes it possible to start treatment in a timely manner, which means that it will be more effective. Such an ailment in newborns can be due to the following factors:

  • stenosis of the pelvic system;
  • high discharge of the ureter;
  • narrowing of the neck of the bladder.

Hydronephrosis in children is treated more successfully than in adults, as it is diagnosed in the early stages.

Treatment of hydronephrosis in children

Treatment of hydronephrosis in children and newborns is carried out only after accurate diagnosis and confirmation of the diagnosis. The mandatory diagnostic program includes the following:

  • general analysis of urine and blood;
  • Ultrasound of the kidneys;
  • x-ray examination of the kidneys.

As a rule, the treatment of hydronephrosis in children is carried out only promptly and takes place in two stages:

  • excision of tissues to expand the passage;
  • anastomosis - suturing of the ureter to the pelvis.

Such an operation does not pose a threat to life, subject to the competence of the surgeon. The rehabilitation period does not last long, but a diet is required for this period. This circumstance does not apply to newborns.

Hydronephrosis during pregnancy

Hydronephrosis during pregnancy has the same symptoms as listed above. It should be noted that hydronephrosis in this position often develops in the right kidney than in the left. This is due to the fact that the ureter is compressed due to the expansion of the uterus.

It is very important to determine whether this disease was formed during pregnancy or was congenital. The fact is that hydronephrosis during pregnancy can cause the development of pathology in a newborn.

Operable intervention in this position is impossible. As a rule, conservative treatment is prescribed with a minimum consumption of medications. In this case, treatment with folk remedies is appropriate, but only as prescribed by a doctor. It is important to follow the diet, but without prejudice to the child.

Diagnostics

During the examination, the doctor can preliminarily diagnose hydronephrosis through palpation. In the area of ​​​​the organ there is a seal. The symptoms of the patient and the general state of his health are also taken into account. For an accurate diagnosis, instrumental and laboratory tests are prescribed:

Based on the tests, an accurate diagnosis is made and the correct course of treatment is prescribed. If it is impossible to make an accurate diagnosis based on the results of such studies, the doctor may prescribe a CT and MRI study.

In most cases, an operation is prescribed. Especially if the disease is diagnosed in children.

As for the treatment of the disease in adults, both conservative treatment and surgery are used. It all depends on the degree of development of the disease and the general condition of the patient. It is important to follow a diet for the period of treatment.

Conservative treatment is appropriate only at an early stage of the disease. As part of the therapy, drugs of the following spectrum of action are prescribed:

  • painkiller;
  • anti-inflammatory;
  • to lower blood pressure;
  • antibacterial (if there is an infection).

However, as practice shows, even at an early stage, surgery gives the best results.

Not the last place in the treatment is diet. The diet is prescribed by the doctor individually. The following foods should be excluded from the daily diet:

  • salty;
  • fatty;
  • smoked;
  • sweets;
  • alcohol;
  • fried meat and spicy dishes.

Instead, the diet should include the following:

  • vegetables and fruits;
  • dairy;
  • proteins.

Such a diet, in combination with the right treatment, gives positive results. By the way, a diet can help improve metabolism, which is good for the whole body.

Treatment with folk remedies

Folk remedies for the treatment of hydronephrosis are often used, but only in tandem with the drug treatment, and after consultation with the doctor.

Folk remedies for the treatment of this disease are presented in the form:

  • herbal teas for oral administration;
  • tinctures;
  • compresses;
  • warming pads.

In tandem with the main course of treatment, such folk remedies will give positive results. Folk remedies are especially good at the initial stage of the development of the disease.

Pay special attention to the fact that treatment with folk remedies can only be started after the diagnosis is confirmed. Otherwise, their use may not only not help, but also aggravate the general condition of the patient. Therefore, when the first symptoms appear, which will indicate the development of pathology, you should immediately consult a doctor.

Hydronephrosis of the kidney is a complex and dangerous disease. However, if the treatment of hydronephrosis is started in a timely manner, the disease is completely cured without the development of complications.

If you think that you have Hydronephrosis of the kidneys and symptoms characteristic of this disease, then doctors can help you: a nephrologist, a urologist.

We also suggest using our online disease diagnostic service, which, based on the symptoms entered, selects probable diseases.

A kidney tumor is a pathological process that is characterized by the growth of organ tissues, which manifests itself in the form of obvious qualitative changes in the structure of this organ. The degree of danger of the pathological process in a kidney tumor will depend on the type of neoplasm - malignant or benign. It is possible to establish the nature of such a disease only by conducting a comprehensive examination, which necessarily includes CT (computed tomography) and MRI.

Nephrolithiasis is currently a fairly commonly diagnosed ailment in which the formation of kidney stones is observed. It is worth noting that calculi can occur in both adults and children. Disease occurs against the background of complex chemical processes in the human body. Among the predisposing factors, irrational nutrition, the presence of infectious processes and a genetic predisposition are distinguished.

Nephritic syndrome is a pathological condition characterized by inflammation of the glomeruli of the kidneys with signs of azotemia. This process, as a rule, proceeds against the background of severe hematuria, proteinuria. As a result, salts and fluids are retained in the human body.

Urolithiasis (urolithiasis) is a pathological process that leads to the formation of stones in the bladder, ureter or kidneys. The disease is diagnosed in 3% of the total population. In young people, stones are most often found in the kidneys and ureter. In older people, the pathology is formed in the bladder area. There are no restrictions regarding age and gender.

Glomerulonephritis is an inflammatory disease in which the small vessels of the kidneys (glomeruli) are affected. Glomerulonephritis, the symptoms of which are manifested in the form of damage to the main functions of the kidneys, is a bilateral lesion, while the functions that are directly affected by the disease include the formation of urine, as well as the elimination of toxic and generally unnecessary substances from the body.

With the help of exercise and abstinence, most people can do without medicine.

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Hydronephrosis of the kidneys is a disease in which there is a gradual expansion of the pelvicalyceal complex associated with a violation of the outflow of urine. If left untreated, this leads to compression of the kidney tissue and deterioration of its functions, which negatively affects human health.

Hydronephrosis can occur at any age, from the neonatal period to extreme old age, but most often this disease affects young people 25-35 years old. Women get sick more often than men.

Causes of hydronephrosis

Under normal conditions, the kidney passes a huge amount of blood through itself during the day and filters it, ensuring the removal of toxins from the body that come from outside or are formed in the process of metabolism. Urine from the kidney enters the pelvicalyceal system - a collection of small extensions in the uppermost part of the ureter. After that, it flows through the ureter into the bladder and is excreted outside the body during urination.

All cases of hydronephrosis of the kidneys can be divided into two large groups depending on the time of their occurrence: congenital and acquired. The causes of congenital hydronephrosis, which manifests itself as symptoms already in newborns, are congenital anomalies in the development of the urinary system organs: kidneys, ureters and bladder.

What congenital anomalies can lead to hydronephrosis?
  • Abnormal location of the ureter or the wrong place for its entry into the bladder;
  • Incorrect arrangement of the arteries of the kidneys and their branches, in which they compress the tissue of the ureter;
  • Complete or partial absence of the ureter along its length;

At the same time, these anomalies create difficulties in the outflow of urine, which, in turn, leads to the expansion of the pelvicalyceal complex and the development of hydronephrosis of the kidneys.

According to the mechanisms of its occurrence, acquired hydronephrosis is considered secondary, i.e. arising against the background of any disease existing in the patient's body (tumor-like formations in the small pelvis, inflammatory processes in the bladder and ureter, urolithiasis, etc.). These pathologies create obstacles to the outflow of urine, which leads to stretching of the urinary tract and, ultimately, to damage to the structure of the kidney itself.

There are 5 groups of factors that can lead to the development of acquired hydronephrosis:

  • Causes of violation of the outflow of urine are located in the lumen of the urethra or in the bladder;
  • The outflow of urine is impaired due to obstructions associated with the lumen of the pelvis or ureter;
  • The obstruction is located in the wall of the ureter or pelvis;
  • The obstruction is associated with an incorrect position of the ureters or with their inflection;
  • External obstructions compressing the ureters.

Hydronephrosis in pregnancy

The development of hydronephrosis during pregnancy is observed in a large percentage of cases. This is due to compression of the ureters by the growing uterus. In addition to this, changes in the hormonal background of pregnant women can lead to a violation of the contraction of the walls of the ureters, thereby contributing to the violation of the outflow of urine and aggravating the course of the disease.

A feature of hydronephrosis in pregnant women is considered to be a frequent lesion of the right kidney, which is associated with the peculiarities of its location in the retroperitoneal space and the high frequency of its descent (right-sided nephroptosis).

It is important to note that hydronephrosis during pregnancy is a temporary condition that does not always require medical or surgical treatment to correct. But, when making a diagnosis, it is necessary to establish whether hydronephrosis developed during pregnancy, or were there prerequisites for its occurrence before it? In the latter case, a rapid progression of the disease is possible (up to the need for termination of pregnancy), which indicates the importance of timely registration of a pregnant woman in a antenatal clinic and an extended medical examination.

Types of hydronephrosis

When making a diagnosis, it is necessary to indicate: a one- or two-sided process is observed in a patient. It is hardly necessary to explain the meaning of these terms: with unilateral hydronephrosis, the pelvicalyceal complex is affected only on one side, with bilateral, respectively, on both sides. The cause of a unilateral lesion, as a rule, is the pathology of the ureter or adjacent tissues (tumor formations, inflammatory changes in the small pelvis). Bilateral damage is more often caused by violations of the outflow of urine at the level of the bladder or simultaneous damage to both ureters. In this case, the patient has a high risk of developing chronic renal failure.

Development of hydronephrosis

The expansion of the pyelocaliceal complex and damage to the kidney tissue occurs in several stages, ranging from asymptomatic course to the development of chronic renal failure. There are three stages in total.

Initial stage. It begins to develop when there are obstacles to the outflow of urine and is characterized by a gradually increasing expansion of the pelvis. At the same time, the work of the kidney is not disturbed at this stage, since such a stretching of the pelvis can compensate for violations of the outflow of urine for a long time.

Stage of expressed manifestations. It is characterized by the involvement of the pelvis and calyces in the process. At this stage, a gradually progressive impairment of the kidneys joins. This is due to the fact that the expanding cups and pelvis compress the renal tissue and disrupt the functioning of its structural elements.

Terminal stage. Atrophy of the renal tissue occurs and either chronic renal failure occurs, or a complete loss of the functional ability of the kidney.

In addition to gradation according to these stages, there is an important classification of the degree of damage to the kidney tissue, which is actively used by medical professionals to determine the severity of the course of the disease and select adequate treatment methods.

1 degree hydronephrosis is characterized by complete preservation of the integrity of the structures of the kidneys, and is favorable in terms of long-term prognosis for the patient;

Grade 2 is accompanied by damage to the kidney tissue, and, as a rule, surgical treatment of hydronephrosis is required.

Grade 3 is characterized by significant damage to the structures of the kidney and a significant decrease in its ability to perform its functions.

Grade 4 means the complete absence of functional parenchyma and the death of the organ.

Prognosis for hydronephrosis

It is very important to diagnose this disease in the early stages, which allows for adequate monitoring of the patient and the appointment of rational methods of treatment that contribute to complete recovery. If the diagnosis is late, then complete destruction of the kidney tissue and its death with the development of chronic renal failure is possible.

Complications of hydronephrosis

The kidneys are vital organs that play a key role in the body's water-salt metabolism. In addition, thanks to the kidneys, toxic substances, drugs and metabolic waste are removed from our body. Violation of these functions leads to the accumulation of these "slags" in the body and can lead to a person's disability or death.

The most frequent complications of renal hydronephrosis is the development of chronic renal failure; resistant to therapeutic treatment, arterial hypertension and pyelonephritis (due to the addition of an infectious and inflammatory process). In addition, against the background of hydronephrosis of the kidneys, urolithiasis very often develops.

The most formidable complication is the rupture of the pyelocaliceal complex, leading to the outflow of urine into the retroperitoneal space with the development of an inflammatory process and acute renal failure.

Who treats hydronephrosis?

You should never engage in self-diagnosis and treatment of hydronephrosis. When the first suspicions appear, it is necessary to contact medical institutions. Professional treatment of hydronephrosis of the kidneys is carried out by urologists. These are specialists who have completed six years of medical school and completed an internship or residency in urology. With the progression of the process and the addition of kidney damage, the treatment is also prescribed by a nephrologist.

Symptoms



The main symptoms of hydronephrosis of the kidney in adults and children, which are observed in most patients:

  • severe pain in the lower back, abdomen, which can radiate to other parts of the body and not be clearly localized;
  • the appearance of blood clots in the urine;
  • increase in body temperature;
  • kidney enlargement;
  • weakness;
  • headache;
  • chills;
  • increase in blood pressure.

The temperature with hydronephrosis rises only when the disease is accompanied by an infectious lesion of the kidneys. In this case, it is necessary to carry out immediate treatment, which is aimed at the destruction of pathogenic bacteria.

Symptoms of hydronephrosis depend on its stage. The acute phase of the disease is characterized by the appearance of severe renal colic, pulling pain in the lower back. In this case, the activity of the kidneys is disturbed, blood is often observed in the urine. These symptoms disappear over time. At the same time, other more serious signs appear that indicate hydronephrosis.

The more advanced the disease, the more pronounced its symptoms. In severe cases, pus forms in the kidney, and serious kidney failure can occur. Also, serious disorders often develop in the problem organ. They entail deformation and destruction of the kidneys, if timely measures are not taken.

The signs of hydronephrosis are in many ways similar to other kidney diseases, so it is important to conduct a high-quality diagnosis in a timely manner, which will help to establish the true causes of these symptoms.

Symptoms of hydronephrosis in adults

A feature of the disease is that it often develops without visible symptoms. Sometimes it is possible to establish the presence of problems with the kidneys only after a routine examination, when an increase in this organ is detected by palpation. In especially thin people in the hypochondrium, even at the initial stage of the disease, a tumor-like formation is well palpated.

Pain in hydronephrosis is usually aching in nature and is determined in the lumbar region. Depending on which kidney is affected, discomfort is more localized in the right or left side. Sometimes the disease can develop from both sides at once.

A characteristic symptom of hydronephrosis in children and adults is the appearance of impurities of mucus, pus and blood in the urine. She becomes more cloudy. At the same time, blood in the urine is not constantly present, but only for a few days at the initial stage of the disease. Over time, this symptom is not observed in most patients.

A characteristic feature of hydronephrosis is that most patients prefer to sleep on their stomach at night. This improves the outflow of urine and the person feels better.

What pain is observed with hydronephrosis?

Pain with hydronephrosis can be very weak and imperceptible, or, conversely, very pronounced, cramping. Its appearance and intensity does not depend on the time of day and the position in which a person sleeps. These attacks are most often short-lived, but cause a lot of suffering.

A feature of pain during an attack of hydronephrosis is that it can spread to other parts of the body. For example, in the groin, legs, thighs. In most cases, as the disease progresses, pain decreases, but this does not indicate an improvement in the person's condition.

Pain can be very pronounced if hydronephrosis accompanies urolithiasis. In this case, renal colic and severe spasms appear, which are provoked by the movement of stones and sand along the urinary ducts. This symptom may appear after exercise or after drinking a large amount of liquid.

Additional symptoms that may indicate hydronephrosis

In the presence of the following signs, which are accompanied by pain in the lower back, the appearance of blood in the urine and an increase in the kidneys, we can talk about the development of hydronephrosis:

  • increased blood pressure;
  • bloating;
  • increased fatigue, which leads to a decrease in performance;
  • in some cases, there is pain when urinating, especially if hydronephrosis accompanies urolithiasis;
  • severe vomiting;
  • constant nausea;
  • temperature rise.

What symptoms indicate grade 3 hydronephrosis?

As the disease develops and without adequate treatment, new symptoms appear that indicate quite dangerous processes in the human body. In some cases, a fatal outcome is even possible, especially if the patient neglected the doctor's recommendations.

When examining a person, you can notice that his limbs and the whole body are very swollen. The amount of daily urine is significantly reduced. Pain, colic and spasms that bothered the patient in the early stages of the disease are not observed. In this case, the kidney doubles in size, so it is very easy to feel during examination.

Some patients have visual impairment, anemia, renal failure, which leads to irreversible consequences for the body.

Symptoms of hydronephrosis in babies

The diagnosis of hydronephrosis in newborns is most often made when the baby is still in the womb. The signs of the disease are determined by the doctor during ultrasound diagnostics already at the 20th week of pregnancy.

Typical symptoms that may indicate hydronephrosis in infants include:

  • the child is very restless and often cries;
  • decrease in the number of urination and a small amount of urine;
  • the appearance of swelling under the rib in the lumbar or abdomen;
  • the presence of blood in the urine;
  • causeless vomiting.

Babies who have hydronephrosis often have an enlarged tummy. They are lethargic, very sleepy. Older kids refuse games, food. Also, many children can itch and scratch themselves a lot. This is due to the accumulation of toxic substances in the tissues, which irritates the delicate skin of the baby.

Symptoms of hydronephrosis in children

Signs of hydronephrosis in children are the same as in adults. However, they may be more pronounced.

The main symptoms of hydronephrosis in children:

  • urine becomes more cloudy, blood blotches may be observed;
  • the amount of daily urine decreases;
  • pain in the lower back, abdomen;
  • an increase in the kidney is observed, while becoming more pronounced with the progression of the disease.

Also, children in the presence of the disease may complain of headaches, nausea, weakness and fatigue. Often kids can refuse food, games, walks with friends. The temperature in hydronephrosis in a child rises if the disease is accompanied by an infection. In some cases, enuresis is observed.

Signs of hydronephrosis in children may indicate the presence of a concomitant disease - urolithiasis, pyelonephritis.

In especially severe cases, pressure rises significantly, swelling of the extremities appears, while the skin remains dry. The baby loses his appetite, the child becomes weak and lethargic.

If you have symptoms that may indicate the development of hydronephrosis, you should definitely consult a doctor who will conduct the necessary tests and determine what happened. If you do not pay attention to the signs of the disease, a person's condition is rapidly deteriorating, which can lead to irreparable consequences.

Diagnostics



If hydronephrosis is suspected, it is necessary to immediately undergo a comprehensive medical examination to make the correct diagnosis or exclude it. An early start of a diagnostic search will allow you to find out the cause of the development of hydronephrosis and help the doctor correctly prescribe a rational treatment.

The following research methods are used to diagnose hydronephrosis:

  • Clinical blood test;
  • Blood chemistry;
  • Clinical analysis of urine;
  • Ultrasound examination of the kidneys;
  • X-ray examination of the kidneys (excretory urography and retrograde pyelography);
  • Computed and magnetic resonance imaging;
  • cystourethrography;
  • Radioisotope study (nephroscintigraphy).

Let us dwell on each method for diagnosing hydronephrosis in more detail.

Clinical blood test

The first research method for a patient with any disease, which also occupies an important place in the diagnosis of hydronephrosis. It is advisable to take blood for analysis in the morning on an empty stomach to exclude the influence of physiological reactions on the composition of cells. As a rule, hydronephrosis is characterized by erythropenia (a decrease in the content of red blood cells in the peripheral blood), anemia (a decrease in the content of hemoglobin) and leukocytosis (an increase in the content of leukocytes in the blood as a result of an inflammatory process in the renal tissue).

Blood chemistry

It is used in the diagnosis of hydronephrosis to assess impaired renal function and in the differential diagnosis of the causes of the disease. First of all, it is necessary to pay attention to the content of creatinine, uric acid and urea in the blood. Their increase, especially in dynamics, indicates a violation of the excretory function of the kidneys and the addition of complications from the renal tissue to hydronephrosis.

Clinical analysis of urine

The so-called "middle portion of urine" with a volume of 50-100 ml is collected in a sterile container. To do this, in the first seconds of the act of urination, urine must be directed into the toilet, and not into the container, and after that, collect the required amount of urine. The container is tightly closed with a lid and delivered to the laboratory, which will already conduct the study.

With hydronephrosis, deviations in the clinical analysis of urine are very rare. Sometimes, leukocyturia (the appearance of leukocytes in the urine) and slight hematuria (the appearance of erythrocytes in the urine) can be observed, which indirectly may indicate such causes of hydronephrosis as a tumor or urolithiasis. When a large number of leukocytes and pus appear in the urine, a urinary tract infection, namely pyelonephritis, can be suspected.

Ultrasound examination of the kidneys

This is an easy-to-use and safe for the patient diagnostic method that allows you to quickly confirm or refute the diagnosis. With the help of ultrasound, it is possible to conduct a differential diagnosis of the causes of hydronephrosis, assess the degree of its development, and also see the structures that prevent the outflow of urine in a patient (stones in the pelvicalyceal complex, tumor formations, anomalies in the development of the kidneys and ureter). The research method is carried out by a doctor in an ultrasound room and does not require special preparations for the procedure.

X-ray examination of the kidneys

X-ray examination of the kidneys is the "gold" standard for diagnosing and identifying the causes of hydronephrosis. There are two main methods of X-ray diagnostics:

  • Excretory urography (or excretory pyelography) consists in the sequential performance of x-rays before the introduction of a special contrast agent and at certain intervals after its introduction. The diagnostic method allows to assess the degree of violation of the outflow of urine, the size of the pelvicalyceal complex and determine the factors contributing to the development of hydronephrosis.
  • Retrograde pyelography is similar in nature to excretory urography. The fundamental difference is that the contrast medium is not injected into the patient's blood, but through a catheter inserted into the bladder. This method allows differential diagnosis between the causes of hydronephrosis associated with the bladder and ureters, from the pathology associated with the pelvicalyceal complex.

X-ray examination of the kidneys is performed by a radiologist and requires preliminary collection of information about previously recorded cases of allergic reactions to drugs in a patient.

Computed and magnetic resonance imaging

It is one of the most informative methods for diagnosing hydronephrosis and differential search between its causes. The use of a tomograph makes it possible to obtain layer-by-layer sections of the kidneys, pyelocaliceal complex and ureters, as well as a three-dimensional model of these organs. A high level of detail makes it easy to establish the presence of hydronephrosis and identify the causes of its development.

In addition, it is possible to combine the method of computed tomography with the introduction of a contrast agent to obtain more informative data on the state of the urinary tract.

The implementation of these methods does not require special preparatory measures and is carried out in the departments of radiation diagnostics by radiologists.

Cystourethrography

The diagnostic method is based on the simultaneous use of the X-ray method of examination with catheterization of the ureters and the introduction of a contrast agent through the catheter. In this case, a series of images is taken while filling and emptying the bladder. This allows you to assess violations of the outflow of urine, to establish the presence of a reverse flow of urine from the bladder into the ureter, and also to identify the pathology of the bladder itself.

Nephroscintigraphy

This is a radioisotope diagnostic method in which a small amount of a radioactive drug (the so-called radioactive label) is injected into the patient's body. After the drug is administered, the patient is placed in a special gamma camera, which evaluates the distribution of the radioactive label in the tissues of the kidney and in the structures of the urinary system. The method allows to carry out a dynamic differential diagnosis of the causes of hydronephrosis and to assess the degree of impairment of the excretory function of the kidneys.

The procedure requires special long-term preparation of the patient, has a high risk of complications and high cost, which limits its use as a diagnostic method for hydronephrosis.

It must be remembered that when symptoms of hydronephrosis appear, you should seek qualified medical help in a medical institution, and not try to independently diagnose and prescribe treatment. The earlier this condition is diagnosed, the less the risk of developing irreversible complications from the urinary system.

Treatment



Treatment of hydronephrosis of the kidneys is carried out by two methods. Medical (using various herbal medicines) and surgical intervention. The most common in operational terms are plastic hydronephrosis of the kidney or ureter, bonin operation and permanent removal of the kidney from the patient's body. The choice of treatment method is based on a number of factors, which include the degree of development of hydronephrosis, kidney functionality, the cause of the disease, the age and general condition of the patient.

How is hydronephrosis treated?

Treatment is carried out, including folk remedies, however, the use of medicines is the most effective option. The use of drugs is limited to preventive measures and is aimed primarily at controlling and suppressing pain in the kidney area. Separate medicines are aimed at combating the further development of infections and complications, as well as preventing the occurrence of urolithiasis.

In order to subsequently prevent serious violations of the functions and transport of substances inside the body, it is necessary to carry out treatment with medicines aimed at combating bacteria and infections, which will significantly slow down the development of this disease. In adults and children with exacerbations of the disease, it is necessary to use antibiotic and uroseptic agents throughout the treatment. In chronic infections, frequent relapses can be observed, in this case, a constant intake of a small dose of antibacterial and uroseptic agents is recommended.

Uroseptics are drugs that slowly accumulate in the urine during use and have an antiseptic and antibacterial effect on the body, counteracting inflammation and internal edema. These products contain not only chemicals in the form of quinolone and nitrofuran, but also natural ingredients like cranberry extract, rosemary, horsetail and many others. If your diet is correct (it will contain a large amount of non-animal protein), the effectiveness of drug treatment will increase significantly.

Unfortunately, treatment with drugs will not help to completely get rid of the original cause of the disease, and therefore the patient may need surgery or surgery. The only exceptions in this case are hydronephrosis and hydroureter, which appeared against the background of a neurogenic bladder and ureter. With such a disease, all treatment will be aimed at bringing the bladder to a functional norm.

Separately, it is necessary to mention acute hydronephrosis, which was formed due to blockage of the urinary canal with a small stone or a piece of a dead kidney. This information can be studied in more detail in the description of urolithiasis.

Treatment of hydronephrosis with a surgical method

This type of intervention is carried out in order to ensure the normal functioning of the kidney and the outflow of urine into the ureter and bladder.

If the patient has a serious problem with the outflow of urine due to blockage, the following actions can be applied:

A kind of stent is installed in the ureter, which is a thin and flexible tube, thanks to which a free outflow of urine from the body of the kidney to the bladder is ensured. This tube begins in the pelvis and ends in the bladder. The most important indication for the installation of such a system is the short-term provision of urine outflow due to blockage of the urinary tract by a foreign body in the form of stones or dead tissue. The indication is also a strong squeezing of the ureter due to the formed tumors. The ureter can also narrow after suffering serious injuries in the region of the back and sides. Once the cause of the blockage is completely removed, the tube is removed from the body. The duration of the installation of such a stent can vary from several days to several months.

The next option for the operation is nephrostomy. This is a complex of several surgical techniques that help to remove urine from the pyelocaliceal system of the kidneys. This procedure is temporary and is the very first step that precedes a full surgical intervention to eliminate the causes of hydronephrosis of the left or right kidney. The meaning of this surgical intervention is to pierce the skin and introduce a tube - drainage in the form of a catheter into the region of the renal pelvis. The end of one tube is in the pelvis, and the other is outside the body, it is directly connected to the urine collection bag. Unfortunately, this method will not help to cope with the source of the disease and is a temporary solution to the problem. In any case, there is no way to do without an operation.

All types of operations aimed at eliminating the very cause of hydronephrosis. This is laparoscopic surgery, removal or crushing of stones located in the pelvic body of the kidney, plastic of the pelvis and ureter, as well as removal of tumors and neoplasms.

If, during the diagnostic process, it was found that the functioning of the kidney is completely or partially impaired, then the patient may need an intervention associated with the complete or partial removal of the no longer functioning kidney. Some time after the operation to remove the kidney, a person can return to normal life with some restrictions on diet and physical activity.

How to choose the right treatment for hydronephrosis?

If hydronephrosis is acute, especially in newborns, then the goal of treatment will be the immediate removal of the obstruction that interferes with the natural outflow of urine from the pelvis to the bladder. If the cause of the blockage is a stone, then the patient is prescribed endoscopic surgery or lithotripsy. If, due to circumstances, the cause cannot be eliminated as soon as possible, temporary drainage of the pelvis area of ​​​​the body is prescribed in the form of a stent or nephrostomy. Most often, such actions are carried out if the patient has acute renal failure, infection, and also during pregnancy. After that, a decision is made to conduct a full-fledged surgical intervention.

If hydronephrosis is congenital and chronic, then there is no urgency to eliminate violations. At the moment, there is no consensus on how to properly treat the congenital expansion of the pelvic body of the kidney.

When diagnosing the first two degrees of hydronephrosis, surgical intervention is not prescribed. Expansion of the pelvis of the body of the kidney to a moderate degree is not an indication.

In the case when the disease belongs to the third degree of development, surgical treatment is necessary. Indications for surgery are also the presence of recurrent infections of the excretory system and a decrease in kidney function by less than forty percent.

To control the course of the disease, a proper diet and regular routine examinations are necessary. If any complications are found that lead to a decrease in kidney function, it is necessary to think about surgery.

Medications


What medicines should you take if you have hydronephrosis?

If your condition worsens, you should stop using folk remedies and switch to the use of medicines. If the disease is complicated by the presence of infectious diseases and the development of pyelonephritis, you will need antibiotics. These drugs are designed to fight bacteria. If stones or sand are found in the kidneys, the main part of which is uric acid and urate compounds, therapy is necessary aimed at alkalizing the stones. In addition, you will need medications aimed at reduced pain. With untimely therapy, hydronephrosis can develop into retroperitoneal fibrosis, and in this case, treatment with hormonal drugs is prescribed.

Remember the importance of taking vitamin complexes, during hydronephrosis the body needs especially a lot of vitamin C. You should not look for it exclusively in citrus fruits, because two months after picking fruits, all vitamins begin to break down. As vitamins in the form of tablets, take Supradin, Berocco or Ascorutin.

During illness, it is important to maintain the functioning of the vessels located in the kidneys. For this, the body will need L-arginine. Most of it is found in pine or walnuts, as well as pumpkin seeds. The problem is that in order to get the daily allowance you will need to eat about eight hundred grams of any nut crop, which is quite problematic for a modern person. To obtain the required daily dose, it is enough to take the eponymous drug "L-arginine" twice a day in an amount of only two grams. As a similar tool, you can use the drug "Trental.

If during the illness the patient has constant jumps in blood pressure, then you need to continue to use antihypertensive drugs as a medicine. They must continue to be taken for six months in small doses, this is necessary as a preventive measure to combat renal ischemia. You can take diuretic and urological drugs like Rowatinex, Cyston, Canephron.

Let us consider in more detail the drugs that you need to take if you are sick with hydronephrosis.

Askorutin

Vitamin combination drug. Consists of ascorbic acid and rutin (vitamin P). It is used with a clear lack of vitamins C and P in the human body. In addition, the drug helps in the processes of oxidation and reduction that constantly take place in the body, including the kidneys. Rutin helps prevent the destruction of vitamin C and ensures better absorption by the body. The ingredients are equally useful for the walls of blood vessels, strengthen them, making the vessels stronger and reducing their permeability. Ascorutin has the strongest effect on small capillary vessels. All this helps to strengthen the immune and cardiovascular systems.

L-arginine

This tool is a dietary supplement that increases the overall physical endurance of a person. When using the drug, cellular metabolism and urea metabolism are activated. The drug removes ammonia compounds from the body, while stimulating the production of growth hormone. Reduces the feeling of physical fatigue by switching the metabolism to an aerobic pathway and helps in regulating blood sugar levels. Shows nootropic and antiamnesic properties, helping to fight stress.

Due to its structure, L-arginine is rapidly absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract, passing through histohematic barriers and being distributed throughout all soft tissues of the body. It is partially utilized during metabolic processes through the kidneys, favorably affecting the vessels and pelvic body of the kidney.

Trental

When using this drug, the strength and elasticity of large capillaries and blood vessels increase, and soft tissue nutrition is enhanced. Pentoxifylline, which is part of the composition, accelerates blood flow and thins the blood, while changing its chemical composition and expanding the vessels themselves (including those in the kidneys). Due to this, microcirculation processes in the kidneys are improved. The blood supply to the limbs increases, metabolic processes in the brain are accelerated, positively affecting the work of the central nervous system. The blood becomes less viscous due to the increased elasticity of the red blood cells. The blood flow better dissolves the formed blood clots and prevents new ones from appearing. All this leads to a significant increase in the lumen in the vessels. Muscle fibers relax, expanding their own walls. In cells, oxygen exchange takes place better (including in the kidneys).

Rowatinex

A drug that is prescribed for urolithiasis and for the preventive purposes of the formation of stones. This medical product is made exclusively from natural ingredients.

It is produced in the form of yellow round capsules of liquid content with a specific grassy smell. The composition contains the following components: extracts from the resin and essential oil of coniferous trees, borneol, anise and fennel esters, eucalyptus and olive oil. All these components together help in the dissolution of phyto-components and significantly increase the percentage of absorption of the drug. Auxiliary components in the form of quinoline, gelatin and various dyes form a shell that begins to dissolve only in the intestine.

This drug is indicated primarily for people with renal colic and nephrolithiasis. The drug is prescribed for the formation of stones and sand in the urinary tract. It is used as a preventive measure.

The action of "Rovatinex" is based on the dissolution of the components of calcium salts in the urine. As a result, the stones are broken down into small components, preventing them from re-forming in the urinary system.

The drug increases blood flow in the tissues related to the genitourinary system, significantly increasing the amount of urine and the number of stone fragments that come out with it.

Muscle spasm is eliminated, reducing the pain syndrome that may appear in the process of washing out stones and sand.

Counteracts the formation of inflammation and microorganisms. Increases the amount of useful and protective substances in the urine. All substances are rapidly absorbed by the intestines and excreted in the urine.

It should not be taken by young children and in the first trimester of pregnancy. If you have an allergic reaction to one of the ingredients or if the pain is too severe, do not take it if you are not urinating or if you have an acute urinary tract infection.

cystone

This drug belongs to the plant and has a combined effect on the body, while showing anti-inflammatory, diuretic and antispasmodic functions.

The tool significantly reduces the concentration in the urine of elements that in the future can lead to the formation of stones or sand. These include oxalic acid, calcium and its compounds, and hydroxyproline. It increases the content of elements that can inhibit the formation of stones or sand. These are sodium, magnesium and potassium. The agent disintegrates formed stones with the help of demineralizing processes. Accumulation of particles occurs around the stones, which contributes to slowing down, and after a complete cessation of the processes of formation and growth of stones.

This drug helps to establish the process of urination by strongly relaxing the muscles of the urinary tract, removing oxalate and phosphate salts, uric acid and small stones and sand with urine.

It has a bacteriostatic and bactericidal effect against most bacteria and other microorganisms known to science. The drug does not affect the acidity of urine.

This drug is indicated for people suffering from urolithiasis. With the formation of salt crystals inside the kidneys and urine. With urinary tract infections like cystitis or pyelonephritis, as well as with gout.

The only contraindication is individual intolerance to the components of the drug.

Take the medicine should be two tablets twice a day for four to six months. This time depends purely on the appointment of your doctor, so you should not carry out self-treatment, but it is better to sign up for a consultation with a specialist.

Folk remedies



Quite common in our time is the treatment of hydronephrosis with folk remedies. The most popular in the application is medicinal herbs and products prepared from them. Not many people know, but ordinary pumpkin fruit petioles are an effective remedy in the fight against hydronephrosis. They have a strong anti-inflammatory and analgesic effect, often, it is even used to alleviate toothaches.

In order to get rid of hydronephrosis with a pumpkin, you will need to chop its stalks, pour them with half a liter of warm water and leave them in a water bath for twenty minutes. After, wrap the pan with a warm cloth and insist for two hours. Drink the resulting decoction in half a glass four times a day. Methods for treating hydronephrosis with pumpkin also include the use of pumpkin juice, which should be drunk in half a glass three times a day.

Folk remedies for hydronephrosis also include beans. To prepare the medicine, you will need a few finely chopped bean flaps. Place them in a saucepan and pour a liter of boiled water, insist in a water bath for about two hours. Drink half a glass five to eight times a day, depending on how you feel. It will be especially useful for those who have not only hydronephrosis, but also diabetes.

Alternative treatment actively uses parsley to treat dropsy of the kidney. Parsley root tincture is made as follows: one tablespoon of finely chopped parsley is poured with boiling water and infused for twelve hours. Drink the resulting infusion in a tablespoon four times a day twenty minutes before meals. If for some reason you do not have parsley root, you can use its seeds.

A simple cumin tincture is prepared in a similar way. Two teaspoons of crushed cumin seeds are poured with boiling water and insisted for two hours. Drink half a glass four times a day.

For the treatment of this disease in folk medicine, a variety of herbal preparations are used, which can be consumed as much as possible for no more than four months. It should be taken on an empty stomach, about thirty minutes before a meal.

The following herbal preparations are considered the most effective:

  • Burdock root, wormwood, common chamomile, celery root and rose hips. All ingredients should be one hundred and fifty grams.
  • Adonis, nettle, oats, bearberry and horsetail - all this should be one teaspoon each. Three teaspoons of birch leaves will need to be added to the mixture.
  • Currant, cranberry, knotweed, raspberry leaves, calamus root, meadowsweet inflorescence, string and chamomile.
  • Fireweed, alder, marshmallow, celandine, coriander, knotweed and mint.

All components are crushed. A collection in the amount of two tablespoons is steamed with boiling water and left overnight. In the morning, the tincture is filtered and they begin to take a third of a glass - three to four times a day. If drinking is difficult due to excessive bitterness, add a little honey.

An important component of treatment is proper nutrition. If you have hydronephrosis, a large amount of protein should be included in the diet, however, meat and fish dishes are completely prohibited. The best solution in this case would be ordinary chicken eggs. The diet should contain a minimum amount of salt, and the amount of water drunk per day should not be less than two liters.

Before you try to treat hydronephrosis of the kidney on your own, be sure to consult with your doctor. It is necessary to have information about the general condition of the kidneys, to know if blood pressure needs to be lowered, and if there are any contraindications associated with certain treatments.

The information is for reference only and is not a guide to action. Do not self-medicate. At the first symptoms of the disease, consult a doctor.

Hydronephrosis is the accumulation of fluid in the pyelocaliceal system, which leads to the expansion of the kidney and disruption of the normal excretion of urine. As a result, atrophic phenomena and renal failure develop. Only surgery is effective. But often patients want to avoid it, so the question is whether the treatment of hydronephrosis without surgery is effective?

Hydronephrosis is the result of the influence of other diseases of the genitourinary system on the outflow of urine. The main causes of hydronephrotic transformation of the kidney are as follows:

  • congenital or acquired narrowing of the ureters;
  • the formation of malignant or benign tumors;
  • retroperitoneal fibrosis;
  • urolithiasis disease.

As a result of the expansion of the pelvis and calyces, the excretory organ increases, the tissue and muscle fibers atrophy.

Alternative Medicine for Kidney Treatment

With hydronephrosis of the kidneys, treatment with folk remedies is auxiliary and is used together with medications in the period before surgery. Methods of treatment with folk remedies show an excellent effect in the rehabilitation period. Such drugs help to establish metabolic processes, heal tissues, act as antibacterial and anti-inflammatory agents.

With the help of alternative medicine, hydronephrosis can be cured after surgery, if the diet and drinking regimen is additionally observed. It is important to consult a doctor before starting treatment, follow the dosage and duration of administration prescribed by the doctor after examining the patient.

Treatment rules

Drink a decoction for the kidneys half an hour before the start of the meal. The dosage is selected by the doctor. Consultation with a doctor is needed to exclude an overdose of certain components that can be part of traditional drugs and used for home treatment.

Preparation of herbal preparations

All prescriptions for renal drugs are prepared in the same way. Plants are first crushed, mixed in the right proportions, poured with freshly boiled water. The liquid is infused for a day in a thermos. You can drink the drink after straining. The multiplicity of receptions is equal to the number of meals per day.

Effective treatment is made with decoctions of such herbal preparations.

Mix in equal proportions birch leaves, dandelion roots and juniper berries. The medicine will help reduce pressure, eliminate inflammation. Acts as a diuretic.

  1. Mix one part of currant leaves, raspberries, chamomile flowers, meadowsweet, calamus rhizomes, knotweed and succession. Infusions prepared on the basis of such a collection have analgesic and antispasmodic effects, remove nitrogenous substances from a healthy kidney.
  2. They take celery root, burdock, wormwood, rose hips, chamomile flowers and bearberry. The tool expels toxins from the blood, acts as a uroseptic in the organs of the genitourinary system.
  3. Alder cones, knotweed grass, boletus and peppermint leaves are mixed in equal parts. You can insist on the medicine in a water bath. The decoction, acting as an antispasmodic, relaxes the smooth muscles of the urinary tract. This helps to improve the outflow of urine from the affected areas of the kidney.
  4. Also useful is a remedy prepared from such hop cones, birch leaves, adonis and horsetail. It eliminates spasm in the muscles, improves the outflow of urine, thereby preventing the development of the disease.

All medicines prepared according to grandmother's recipes will be effective for hydronephrosis only if the medical prescriptions, dosage and duration of administration are followed.

Diet

The best dietary option for kidney diseases is table number 7. Salt, fats and proteins of animal origin are excluded from the diet. The calorie content of food and the volume of liquid are significantly reduced.

Treatment with folk remedies for hydronephrosis is effective before surgery and during rehabilitation. But all medications used must be discussed with the attending physician in order to prevent the development of serious complications.

Hydronephrosis of the kidney is a specific disease characterized by a pathological increase in the internal size of the pyelocaliceal region of the kidneys due to strong pressure on its walls of a large volume of fluid (urine excreted by the kidneys). In this article, you will learn what signs pathology accompanies, how to treat hydronephrosis of the kidneys with modern methods, what else can be done.

Hydronephrosis of the kidneys: what is it?

What is kidney disease called hydronephrosis? Hydronephrotic transformation of the kidney or hydronephrosis of the kidneys is a serious pathology, consisting in an increased content of fluid in both or one kidney. The normal outflow of urine is disturbed, and this leads to inflammation of the renal tissue - the parenchyma, with its subsequent atrophy and deterioration of the filtering and excretory function of the kidney.

As a result of this, partial, and then, with the progression of the disease, complete renal failure may occur at first.

In medical practice, both hydronephrosis of the right and left kidneys are equally common. As for bilateral hydronephrosis, it is recorded in 5-9% of detected cases. Hydronephrosis can be not only congenital, but also acquired. Moreover, congenital hydronephrosis occurs against the background of urinary tract dyskinesia, an anomaly in the placement of the renal artery (possibly its branches), which compresses the ureter.

Causes of hydronephrosis

The disease develops due to a violation or absolute cessation of the movement of urine from the kidney to the bladder, which occurs due to a number of physiological or anatomical factors. An additional renal vessel passing to the bottom of the kidney from the aorta can also cause the disease. This additional vessel is located crosswise with the ureter and presses on it, which leads to narrowing.


Depending on the causes of the development of the disease, its forms are distinguished:

Congenital - hydronephrosis develops in utero or immediately after birth. Acquired - hydronephrosis appears as a result of damage to a previously healthy kidney.

The acquired form of hydronephrosis can have both anatomical causes of a violation of the outflow of urine from the renal pelvis, and physiological (arising against the background of diseases of the central and peripheral nervous system).

In total, there are five main groups of pathological conditions that create mechanical obstacles of anatomical nature in the urinary system:

Thickening of the walls of the ureter or pelvis as a result of tumors. The presence of tumors in surrounding organs and tissues that compress the ureter, kidney or urethra. Violation of the normal location of the ureter or kidney (omission of the kidney, bending or torsion of the ureter). Overlapping of the internal lumen of the ureter and pelvis with formed kidney stones. Compression or damage to the lower organs of the urinary system as a result of cancer and other diseases or injuries.

Quite often, women develop hydronephrosis during pregnancy. Its cause is mechanical compression of the ureter and other organs of the urinary system by an enlarged uterus.

Degrees of the disease

Doctors share several degrees of development of this disease, which have individual characteristics.

1 degree the first degree of hydronephrosis is characterized by: a slight accumulation of urine in the pelvis, a slight stretching of the walls of the pelvis, the functionality of the kidneys is not impaired;
2 degree for the second degree of hydronephrosis of the kidneys: due to excessive stretching of the pelvis, the tissue of the organ becomes thin and the functionality of the kidney suffers. If there is hydronephrosis of the kidneys in only one organ, then the main burden of work falls on a healthy one;
3 degree in the third degree of hydronephrosis, it is noted: the diseased kidney completely stops functioning, the healthy organ experiences excessive stress, which causes kidney failure. With such signs, without proper treatment, hydronephrosis of the kidneys can be fatal.

Hydronephrosis is also classified according to the type of development. If the disease is complicated by an attached infection, then it proceeds according to the infected type. If not, such a disease proceeds aseptically, the symptoms in these two cases will differ somewhat.

Symptoms of hydronephrosis

In the photo on the left is a healthy kidney, and on the right is hydronephrosis

Often the development of hydronephrosis of the kidneys goes unnoticed. The disease has no specific symptoms. In the early stages, the clinical picture is due to the cause that caused the development of hydronephrosis. For example, with urolithiasis, attacks of renal colic may occur, characterized by severe acute pain along the ureters.

If hydronephrosis of the kidneys progresses, and no treatment is provided, then the following symptoms of hydronephrosis appear:

pronounced pain from the problem kidney; pain attack is accompanied by nausea, in some cases - vomiting; blood pressure rises; flatulence increases, the patient complains of discomfort due to bloating; when the infection enters the kidney, the body temperature rises - the most dangerous sign; blood is present in the urine - this applies to those patients who have been diagnosed with urolithiasis.

Hydronephrosis of the left kidney

Hydronephrosis of the left kidney is one of the most common complications of urolithiasis, which can also occur on the right side. Hydronephrosis of the left kidney increases the internal pressure of the calyces and pelvis. The walls of these organs “fight” with high pressure for some time. Unable to withstand the pressure, the pressure gradually acts on the kidney itself, which in turn prevents urine from being excreted. Such a process can affect the tissues of the left kidney. The tubules and glomeruli atrophy and shrivel. As a result, the layer of the organ in which urine was formed decreases.

The first symptoms of urinary stasis are: sharp pains in the lateral part of the abdomen, radiating to the leg on the side of the lesion. If hydronephrosis of the left kidney is observed, then the pain will also radiate to the back.

Symptoms of hydronephrosis of the left kidney:

pain in the kidneys, aggravated to the damaged area; nervous excitement, anxiety; symptoms of intoxication of the body with nitrogenous products - loss of appetite, dizziness, migraines, vomiting and nausea, insomnia; back pain that radiates to the groin and under the shoulder blades; pain in the abdomen (stretching of the walls of the ureter under the size of the stone); a small amount of urine excreted per day. Small amounts of mucus and blood may also appear when urinating.

With untimely diagnosis, as well as unqualified treatment, the tissues of the left kidney can be severely damaged. This process leads to a partial loss of organ functionality or even to a complete loss of the ability to perform its functions.

Hydronephrosis of the right kidney

Hydronephrosis of the right kidney must be treated. If this is not done, kidney failure may develop. Stopping the work of the kidney can lead to intoxication and end in the death of the patient. Another possible outcome is urolithiasis, which can be aggravated by infection. The most common complication in this case is rupture of the calyx.

Depending on the level at which the long-term blockage took place, hydronephrosis of the right kidney occurs with various symptoms. The most common cause is urolithiasis. Urinary stones that are larger than the natural pathways of the excretory system get stuck in places of constriction, and therefore completely or partially disrupt the outflow of urine.

Symptoms and signs:

At the initial stage of the disease, a person usually complains of renal colic; in the evening, as a rule, there is a dull pain in the lumbar region, which disappears by night. Attacks can be caused by physical exertion or general overwork. The presence of blood in the urine is observed with increased pressure in the cups, as well as in the presence of kidney stones. Another characteristic feature is an enlarged kidney. In people with an asthenic physique, it can even be felt through the front wall of the abdomen.

Most cases of hydronephrosis (more than half) have a left-sided localization, in about 40% of cases the pathology affects the right kidney, and only 5% of hydronephrotic transformation is bilateral.

Complications

A dangerous complication of hydronephrotic transformation is renal failure and atrophy. Due to changes in tissues, the kidney loses its functionality, and death occurs from intoxication with metabolic products.

Due to renal dysfunction in the blood, the content of residual nitrogen and other substances that are normally excreted through the kidneys with urine increases.

To avoid fatal intoxication, patients are shown the removal of the affected organ, after which patients undergo hemodialysis procedures with an artificial kidney machine or transplant an organ from a donor.

Diagnostics

During the examination, the doctor can preliminarily diagnose hydronephrosis through palpation. In the area of ​​​​the organ there is a seal. The symptoms of the patient and the general state of his health are also taken into account.

Ultrasound of the kidneys with hydronephrosis

For an accurate diagnosis, instrumental and laboratory tests are prescribed:

general analysis of urine and blood; Ultrasound of the kidneys; x-ray examination of the kidneys. If the results of previous examinations are ambiguous, the patient may be referred for MRI or CT.

Hardware diagnostic methods help to determine and compare on which side there is, or kidney damage predominates. So hydronephrosis of the right kidney has a larger size of the pelvic region compared to a healthy left kidney. Or vice versa, hydronephrosis of the left kidney has a large pelvis compared to the right kidney.

There are also many additional methods by which pathology is detected. But they are not that common. The expediency of using one or another individually or many in combination is determined by the attending physician.

Treatment of hydronephrosis of the kidney

The course of treatment that the doctor will select has three directions: relieving symptoms, eliminating the cause, and reducing the load on the kidneys. The goal of treating hydronephrosis is to:

remove accumulated urine and reduce the pressure exerted by it on the kidneys; prevent irreversible deformation; eliminate the cause of hydronephrosis.

Medical treatment

Operation

If the condition of the kidney worsens over time, then hydronephrosis should be treated with surgical intervention.

There are two types of operations aimed at improving function in hydronephrosis:

Type of operation

Anderson-Hines operation
Bougienage

Endoscopic method of surgical intervention, based on the introduction of special rods into the ureter - bougie. It is used to dilate the ureter.

Balloon dilatation

Endotomy

Modern and most effective method of endoscopic surgery for hydronephrosis of the kidneys. It is based on the use of an electric current of the desired frequency, laser radiation or a "cold knife".

Laparoscopic surgery

It is carried out under general anesthesia. The doctor will make 4-5 punctures (ports) in the abdominal wall. Endoscopic equipment is inserted into one, special surgical instruments are inserted into the rest. The operation is characterized by a low degree of tissue injury, suturing is usually not required.

Nephrectomy

It is carried out as a last resort with unilateral hydronephrosis (damage to only the left or right kidney). The indication for kidney removal is complete atrophy of its parenchyma.

Diet

Not the last place in the treatment is diet. The diet is prescribed by the doctor individually. Nutrition should be such as to help restore the flow of urine and kidneys.

The following foods should be excluded from the daily diet:

salty; fatty; smoked; sweets; alcohol; fried meat and spicy dishes.

Instead, the diet should include the following:

vegetables and fruits; dairy; proteins.

Such a diet, in combination with the right treatment, gives positive results. By the way, a diet can help improve metabolism, which is good for the whole body.

How to treat hydronephrosis folk remedies

Treatment with folk remedies involves the use of various herbs and medicinal preparations that improve kidney function and alleviate the condition of patients with hydronephrosis. For this, apply:

Pumpkin, namely the stalks. To prepare the medicine, the stalks are crushed, 500 ml of boiled water is poured and infused in a water bath for 20 minutes. After this, the infusion must be removed, wrapped in a warm towel and infused for about 2 hours. Take 4 times a day for half a cup per reception. 150 gr. birch leaves, 50 gr. nettle leaves, 50 gr. adonis herbs, 50 gr. oat grains, 50 gr. bearberry and 50 gr. field horsetail. Blackcurrant leaves, raspberry leaves, calamus roots, kidney tea, string grass, chamomile flowers are taken in equal proportions. Herbs for hydronephrosis are used in the form of fees, which are recommended to be consumed no longer than 3-4 months. It is necessary to change fees, after each course, after waiting about 2 weeks. Plant infusions are taken on an empty stomach, about half an hour before meals. Chopped parsley root, 1 tbsp. l., pour 100 ml of boiling water. Means insist all night. Gently drain the liquid in the morning and drink 1 tbsp. l. on an empty stomach during the same day. If it is not possible to purchase the roots of the plant, seeds can also be used. However, they give a less pronounced positive result. In the same way, you can prepare infusions for hydronephrosis from cumin seeds.

Prevention

Hydronephrosis of the kidneys, if acquired, occurs only under certain conditions. Doctors recommend taking the following preventive measures to avoid its development:

empty the bladder in time - frequent artificial retention of urine can lead to the fact that part of it will splash back into the pelvis; limit the use of salt and water - a violation of the salt and water balance leads to excessive production of urine in the kidneys; avoid hypothermia - this can provoke the development of inflammatory processes in the genitourinary system.

Men who have been diagnosed with "hydronephrosis of the kidneys" during the examination are interested to know what it is and what the outcome of the disease can be. In medicine, this pathology is also called hydronephrotic transformation, that is, a condition in which, due to a violation of the outflow of urine, the cups and pelvises of the kidneys expand, which leads to an increase in hydrostatic pressure in them.

In this article, you will learn what signs pathology accompanies, how to treat hydronephrosis of the kidneys with modern methods, what else can be done. You can see photos and videos on the topic.

Causes and stages of the development of the disease

A factor provoking the development of hydronephrosis of the kidneys is an obstacle to the natural outflow of urine from the organ. The reason for this can be any pathological process that occurs both in the kidney and outside it - in nearby organs and tissues:

stricture (narrowing) of the urinary tract, congenital or acquired; various stones in the genitourinary system; benign neoplasms; malignant tumors; retroperitoneal fibrosis.

As a result of urinary retention and expansion of the calyces and pelvis of the kidney, the parenchyma and muscle fibers of the organ atrophy. This leads to a deterioration in the functioning of the kidney, up to a complete loss of function.

In total, doctors distinguish three stages in the development of pathology, each of which is characterized by changes in the size of the organ and a deterioration in its functioning.

A slight accumulation of urine causes a slight increase in the pelvis. In this case, the function of the organ is not disturbed or there is a slight deterioration in work. The affected kidney increases by 20%, while its walls become thinner, and performance decreases by 40%. At this stage, a healthy kidney "takes" the load, which to some extent compensates for the deficiency. The kidney increases one and a half or two times. The pelvis and calyces expand, the internal cavity has a multi-chamber structure. The outflow of urine is disturbed, the kidney practically does not function, or does not work at all. As a result, the load on a healthy kidney increases, the organ ceases to cope with its function. The third stage of hydronephrosis, called terminal, is accompanied by chronic renal failure. If there is no treatment, then the outcome of the disease is fatal.

In addition to classification according to the stage of development of pathology, in medicine, pathology is designated by four degrees, depending on the state of the parenchyma.

Kidney parenchyma unchanged. Minor structural damage. Major violation. Absence, complete atrophy of the parenchyma of the damaged kidney.

Hydronephrosis with the same frequency develops both in the left and in the right kidney. In some cases, two kidneys are damaged at once. This condition is called bilateral hydronephrosis of the kidney.

Symptoms of the disease

At the first stage, hydronephrosis proceeds without pronounced signs and is often detected by chance, when examining a patient in connection with various complaints. At this stage, the signs directly depend on the causes that caused the pathology. For example, if hydronephrosis appeared as a result of the formation of stones, then a sharp, sharp pain along the ureters will be an accompanying symptom.

As the pathology progresses, the patient complains of the following problems:

dull pain in the lower back, independent of the time of day and position of the body; painful sensations are most pronounced in the area of ​​the affected kidney: if the left side of the lower back hurts, then the left kidney is affected and vice versa; in some cases, pain appears in the right side of the abdomen; the pain is often accompanied by nausea and vomiting.

The patient may have high blood pressure and bloating. When an organ becomes infected, body temperature rises. In some cases, the only symptom of hydronephrosis of the left or right kidney is the presence of blood particles in the urine. This situation is possible if the problem is caused by the development of urolithiasis. Stones, leaving the bladder, injure the walls of the ureters, while making it difficult for the outflow of urine.

At the last stage, signs of chronic renal failure appear, edema develops, blood pressure rises and anemia. The patient should definitely seek help from a doctor if pain in the lower back begins. Hoping for self-treatment, the patient misses a favorable time to start treatment. The outcome in this case can be deplorable: starting with the removal of the affected kidney, ending with a fatal outcome.

Diagnosis of pathology in a medical institution

It is impossible to make any diagnosis, including "hydronephrosis of the 2nd degree of the right kidney", based only on symptoms. The doctor needs to refer the patient for a comprehensive examination in order to exclude other diseases and determine the cause of the pathology.

First, the doctor collects an anamnesis and conducts an external examination of the patient. The presence of a slight swelling in the lumbar region, a violation of symmetry in this area and the detection of a volumetric formation on palpation give rise to suspect the development of hydronephrosis of the kidneys. An instrumental examination is necessary to confirm or refute the doctor's preliminary conclusion.

In modern medicine, the diagnosis is made on the basis of the results of the following types of examinations:

Ultrasound of the kidneys - will reveal an increase in the renal pelvis, a change in the size of the kidney and the thickness of the parenchymal layer; x-ray examination - it can be used to detect stones, the nature of damage to the urinary tract, the size of the kidney and other parameters; radioisotope urogrophy - to make a more accurate diagnosis.

In some cases, if the results of previous examinations are ambiguous, the patient may be referred for an MRI or CT scan.

In addition to instrumental examination, it will be necessary to take urine and blood samples for microscopic examination. Having on hand the results of examinations and tests, the doctor can determine the pathology and identify the problem that caused the formation of hydronephrosis of the left or right kidney.

Treatment methods for hydronephrosis

The course of treatment that the doctor will select has three directions: relieving symptoms, eliminating the cause, and reducing the load on the kidneys. For this, the following measures are effective:

conservative therapy - the use of drugs that help eliminate the disease and alleviate the patient's state of health; surgical intervention - operations aimed at restoring the kidney, or removing it; adjustment of the patient's lifestyle - diet and other restrictions.

Consider each measure to combat hydronephrosis of the kidneys in more detail.

Medical treatment

Often, the use of drugs precedes the operation. At this stage, the symptoms of hydronephrosis are eliminated, urination is stimulated, and side pathological processes, such as foci of infection, are removed.

The doctor may prescribe the following drugs:

painkillers - to relieve pain in the patient; antibiotics - if there are signs of infection in the body; drugs that lower blood pressure; anti-inflammatory drugs; other medicines, depending on the patient's symptoms.

It should be remembered that drug treatment is used only in the first and second stages and often does not eliminate the pathology. Therefore, surgery, to date, is the only effective method of combating pathology.

Operations for hydronephrosis of the kidneys

Surgical intervention in the first stages of the development of hydronephrosis is aimed at preserving the affected kidney. If necessary, the urinary tract is restored, the plastic of the renal pelvis is performed. Of particular difficulty is the surgical treatment of hydronephrosis of the right kidney: there is a high probability of damage to the pancreas.

If you are interested in the methods of conducting operations, see the table.

Type of operation

Brief description and features

Anderson-Hines operation Open surgery for adults and children. Effective in narrowing the area of ​​the ureter near the kidney. It is carried out under general anesthesia. Complications are observed in 10% of patients.
Bougienage Endoscopic method of surgical intervention, based on the introduction of special rods into the ureter - bougie. It is used to dilate the ureter.
Balloon dilatation Under x-ray control, a special balloon with marks is inserted into the ureter. The doctor expands the area with the presence of a stricture by applying pressure, while the contrast agent enters the ureter. The operation is performed by endoscopic method.
Endotomy Modern and most effective method of endoscopic surgery for hydronephrosis of the kidneys. It is based on the use of an electric current of the desired frequency, laser radiation or a "cold knife".
Laparoscopic surgery It is carried out under general anesthesia. The doctor will make 4-5 punctures (ports) in the abdominal wall. Endoscopic equipment is inserted into one, special surgical instruments are inserted into the rest. The operation is characterized by a low degree of tissue injury, suturing is usually not required.
Nephrectomy It is carried out as a last resort with unilateral hydronephrosis (damage to the left or right kidney only). The indication for removal of the kidney is complete atrophy of its parenchyma.

After the operation, the recovery period lasts a week - one and a half, depending on the method of surgical intervention chosen by the doctor. The patient is in the hospital, under the supervision of medical specialists. During this period, anti-inflammatory drugs are prescribed, general strengthening therapy is carried out. Spicy and salty dishes are excluded from the patient's diet.

After the operation to remove the kidney, it is advisable to adhere to the following dietary rules for three years:

remove fatty, spicy and salty foods; increase daily intake of fresh vegetables and fruits; drink two liters of liquids a day, give up alcohol and smoking.

As for physical activity, you need to follow the doctor's instructions. Usually, the restriction of physical activity is relevant within a month after the operation. In some cases, especially if the intervention was carried out by the laparoscopic method, this period can be reduced.

Diet for hydronephrosis of the kidney

The main task of adjusting the diet for hydronephrosis of the kidneys is to reduce the load on the affected organ. For this, diet No. 7 according to Pevzner is effective, enriched with vitamins and limiting the intake of fat and protein. With this diet, the diet may include:

baking from yeast dough without salt; cereal or vegetable soups; egg yolk; whole milk and dairy products (sour cream, curdled milk); oils, including ghee and butter; cereals and any pasta; fresh vegetables and herbs; fruits and berries in any form; compotes and kissels; sugar or honey; weak tea; natural juices; rosehip decoction.

Dishes are prepared without salt, frying without breading is allowed. The preferred method of cooking is boiling. Possibly baking. Deeply fried food with hydronephrosis is prohibited.

From the diet of the patient must be excluded:

ordinary bread and other flour products, especially if soda is present in the recipe; legumes in any form; meat, fish and mushroom broths; any meat and fish; cottage cheese and cheese; animal fats; pickled, salted or pickled vegetables and mushrooms; sweets.

It is forbidden to drink strong tea and coffee, alcohol and mineral water.

Nutrition is fractional, eating 5-6 times a day, in small portions. Such a diet is prescribed for a week, then the doctor can adjust the diet: exclude or, conversely, introduce certain dishes and products into the diet.

Conclusion

You should not be afraid of the diagnosis of hydronephrosis of the left or right kidney. The level of development of modern medicine makes it possible to cope with the disease even at the last, third stage. To learn how to treat hydronephrosis of the kidneys, you need to see a doctor at the first symptoms. Compliance with the doctor's recommendation, a timely operation, lifestyle adjustments will help to cope with the pathology and restore the usual quality of life.

Hydronephrosis is an expansion of the renal pelvis caused by an increase in pressure within the kidney itself or by an obstruction in the flow of urine.

There are two types of hydronephrosis:

congenital, or primary hydronephrosis, the appearance of which is associated with abnormalities in the development of the kidneys or ureters, acquired, resulting from diseases and injuries of the genitourinary system.

Stages and signs

There are three stages during hydronephrosis.

stage is characterized by the appearance of pyeloectasia - expansion of the pelvis. stage - the expansion of not only the pelvis, but also the calyces of the kidney, that is, the kidney tissue itself begins to suffer. stage - the kidney tissue completely atrophies, the organ ceases to function.

This pathology does not have any specific complaints and symptoms. Often, at the initial stage, the patient has no complaints at all, and in other cases, the following symptoms are most common:

dull pain in the lower back, blood in the urine, increased blood pressure, periodic rises in body temperature, general weakness.

Why is hydronephrosis dangerous?

If the violation of the outflow of urine is not eliminated, the kidney will atrophy. In addition, there are a number of related problems associated with the fact that the affected kidney releases substances in an increased amount (renin and angiotensin), leading to an increase in blood pressure. That is, nephrogenic arterial hypertension develops, which is considered to be malignant.

Such hypertension responds poorly to drug therapy and often leads to various complications, including stroke. Also, an atrophying kidney is often infected, which leads to the development of purulent complications that require emergency surgery for health reasons. Bilateral hydronephrosis is fraught with renal failure and the need for a donor kidney transplant or lifelong hemodialysis.

How to treat the disease?

When hydronephrosis is detected, treatment is primarily aimed at eliminating the cause that caused its development. For example, if these are stones in urolithiasis, then they are crushed, and congenital anomalies are eliminated with the help of plastic surgery.

Depending on the stage of hydronephrosis, treatment can be either active surgical or conservative medication.

If the kidney function is not impaired and there are no complications, then the condition of the kidney is monitored in dynamics and no treatment is prescribed. The localization of a unilateral process does not affect the choice of patient management tactics; hydronephrosis of the left kidney treatment provides the same as the right.

Nutrition for hydronephrosis

Regardless of the chosen treatment tactics, hydronephrosis requires a diet that provides for the consumption of about 3000 calories per day. Proteins containing essential amino acids must be included in the diet. However, meat and fish with hydronephrosis must be excluded from the diet. Egg dishes are acceptable and the basis of the diet should be vegetables and fruits. The patient needs to limit salt intake and drink at least 2 liters of fluid every day.

Treatment with folk remedies

Folk methods can treat only hydronephrosis of the first degree.

In folk medicine, various herbal preparations are used to treat hydronephrosis.

The most effective are the following:

Kidney tea, string grass, raspberry leaves, chamomile flowers, currant leaves, calamus root, meadowsweet flowers and knotweed grass are taken in equal parts and finely chopped. Then the infusion is prepared: 2 tablespoons of the collection are poured with a glass of boiling water. Infusion drink 50 ml 3 times a day. Herbs of knotweed, mint, volodushka, fireweed and celandine, marshmallow root, alder cones and coriander fruits are taken in equal parts, the infusion is prepared in the same way as the previous one. The method of treatment is also the same.

Both collections are applied in turn: after a course of treatment with one collection for 2-3 weeks, a two-week break is made, after which they begin to take the second collection.

Medical treatment

If the pathology is complicated by the addition of infection and the development of pyelonephritis, then antibiotic therapy is necessary. In the presence of stones in the kidney, consisting of uric acid - urates, alkalizing therapy is carried out. Pain is also relieved with medication. And in cases where retroperitoneal fibrosis leads to the development of hydronephrosis, hormonal treatment is prescribed.

Surgery

If the condition of the kidney worsens over time, then hydronephrosis should be treated with surgical intervention. There are two types of operations aimed at improving function in hydronephrosis:

creation of an additional channel for the exit of urine, narrowing of the expanded pyelocaliceal system of the kidney.

As a rule, radical surgery is preceded by drainage of the kidney. They are also used to treat hydronephrosis during pregnancy, which is caused by compression of the ureter by the growing uterus.

If the patient has hydronephrosis of the 3rd degree, the treatment involves the removal of a kidney that is no longer functioning, which is, in fact, a thin-walled bag with liquid contents.

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