Urinary Tract Infection

Obstructive Uropathy -Symptoms, Causes, And Treatment

Obstructive uropathy is a condition when the urine flow from the kidneys  is blocked by an obstruction anywhere along the urinary tract. The urinary tract system consists of kidneys, bladder, ureters, and urethra which are all  involved in the excretion of urine from the body. A blockage along this system can cause urine to backward into your kidneys. This backflow of urine causes swelling of the kidneys which is known as hydronephrosis.

Obstructive uropathy can be sudden or can occur gradually over a long period of time. It can affect one or both kidneys and can affect both males and females at any age. 

Not seeking prompt medical treatment can lead to severe kidney damage. Fortunately, most causes of obstruction can be corrected. However, if the obstruction is severe and  causes significant damage to both kidneys, you may need dialysis or maybe even a kidney transplant.

Causes of Uropathy

Obstructive uropathy affects people of all age groups, but most cases occur in infants and the elderly. In infants, the most common reason is congenital defects in the urinary tract. An enlarged prostate is one of the most common reasons for obstructive uropathy in men over 60 . Uropathy is significantly less common in females.

Other causes of obstruction include

• Kidney stones trapped in ureters
• Bladder tumor
• Urethral stricture or stenosis of the urethral opening
• Cancer of the ureter or urinary bladder
• Scar tissue in the urethra
• Blood clots
• Bladder problems due to nerve damage
• Pelvic fractures 
• Disease of the digestive tract
• Tumor or masses present in kidneys, bladder, uterus, or colon

Symptoms of Obstructive Uropathy

The onset of obstructive uropathy can be abrupt and acute or slow and progressive. Pain is the most common symptom of uropathy which varies from person to person and depends on the level and location of the obstruction. A partial blockage can cause minimal to no pain; however, a complete obstruction may lead to severe pain, nausea and vomiting.

Some of the common symptoms of uropathy include:

• Trouble urinating despite an urge to pee
• Frequent or sudden strong urges to urinate, especially at night
• Pain in the side
• Weight gain
• Swelling 
• Decreased urine output 
• The feeling of incomplete bladder emptying
• Incontinence or leaking urine
• Fever, nausea and vomiting
• Blood in the urine 
• Burning or stinging when urinating

In extreme cases, you may notice changes in the color of your urine, have swelling in your arms and legs, and might develop high blood pressure.

Diagnosing Obstructive Uropathy 

If you experience any of the above symptoms,  seek medical attention immediately for proper diagnosis and management. Diagnosis usually includes general diagnostic tests such as urinalysis and blood work to check for a possible infection. In order to find the blockage, imaging tests, such as a renal scan, abdominal CT scan, MRI, etc., may be required. An ultrasound scan of your pelvic region and kidneys will show if urine flows back into your kidneys.

Treatment for Urinary Tract Obstruction 

Treatment for urinary tract obstruction mainly focuses on removing urine build-up, relieving pressure, preventing permanent damage to the kidneys, and treating the underlying condition. However, treatment will depend on the kind of obstruction found during diagnostic testing. Your doctor may adopt the following treatment strategies:

1. Catheterization: The first and foremost important step is draining the kidneys and bladder to remove urine build-up. This alsoprovides immediate symptomatic relief.
2. Kidney catheter: A catheter is inserted through your skin into your kidney, which helps drain urine directly from your kidney into a collection bag outside of the  body.
3. Urinary catheter: Your doctor may insert a thin tube called a urinary catheter, most likely a foley catheter, into your  bladder to allow urine to drain. Additionally, intermittent catheters are also useful, which are inserted into the urethra to empty the bladder fully.
4. Stent placement: A thin tube is placed into the ureter to hold it open so urine can pass freely.
5. Surgery: Simply emptying the bladder is considered short-term relief, and complete resolution of obstructive uropathy will often require surgery. The surgeon can remove tumors and masses that are formed in and around the ureters. Once the blockage is removed from the affected ureter, urine can pass freely intothe bladder.
6. Lithotripsy: Lithotripsy is a non-invasive procedure to break down kidney, bladder, or ureteric stones that maybe causing the obstruction.
7. Hormonal Therapy: If prostate cancer is causing uropathy; hormonal therapy may be used in combination with other treatments.
8. Antibiotic Therapy: Antibiotics are usually prescribed to treat any associated urinary tract infections (UTIs).

Top 5 Catheter Supplies for Obstructive Uropathy 

Obstructive uropathy is a serious condition. If you experience any symptoms of  urinary tract obstruction, talk to your doctor. Timely treatment can prevent extensive kidney damage. Health Products For You offers a vast collection of urological supplies from leading manufacturers to help improve health and quality of life

 

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