Hydronephrosis: Symptoms & Signs

Hydronephrosis is a condition in which the urine collecting system of the kidney is dilated. This may be a normal variant or it may be due to an underlying illness or medical condition.

Signs and symptoms of hydronephrosis depend on the underlying cause and whether the condition arises suddenly or develops slowly over time. When the condition is due to stones, symptoms may include

• nausea,
• vomiting,
• severe, colicky pain in the side and back that may travel to the lower abdomen or groin,
• blood in the urine, and
• sweating.

Other causes of hydronephrosis may lead over time to symptoms of kidney failure such as

• leg swelling,
• weakness,
• shortness of breath,
• chest pain, and
• malaise.

Causes of hydronephrosis

The most common cause of hydronephrosis is blockage of the urinary system due to stones, tumors, or other conditions. Hydronephrosis is also associated with pregnancy, and a number of conditions can cause hydronephrosis.

Other hydronephrosis symptoms and signs

• Blood in the Urine
• Chest Pain
• Leg Swelling
• Malaise
• Nausea
• Severe, Colicky Pain in the Side and Back That May Travel to the Lower Abdomen or Groin
• Shortness of Breath
• Sweating
• Vomiting
• Weakness

symptomchecker

Health concerns on your mind?
Click here to visit our Symptom Checker.

SLIDESHOW

Kidney Stones: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment See Slideshow