How to treat hydronephrosis best

There are many different treatments for hydronephrosis, and choosing the right treatment depends on the cause, the extent of the hydronephrosis, and the patient's overall health. In general, the goal of treating hydronephrosis is to eliminate urinary tract obstruction, restore normal urine flow, and protect kidney function.

It is important to understand the cause of hydronephrosis. Hydronephrosis is usually caused by a blockage in the urinary tract, such as kidney stones, urethral strictures, tumors, or congenital malformations. For mild hydronephrosis, immediate treatment may not be needed, but regular monitoring of kidney function and hydronephrosis is necessary. If the hydronephrosis is severe or the cause is clear, prompt treatment is particularly important.

For hydronephrosis caused by stones, the stones can usually be removed with medication, extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy, or endoscopic surgery. Medical treatment may include the use of diuretics to help pass the stones, or medications to dissolve the stones. Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy is a non-invasive treatment that uses shock waves to break up the stones so that they can pass naturally. Endoscopic surgery involves inserting an endoscope through the urethra under anesthesia to directly remove the stones.

If hydronephrosis is caused by something like a narrowing of the urethra or a tumor, surgery may be needed to relieve the blockage. This may involve using a stent to widen the narrowing or removing the tumor that is causing the blockage. In some cases, more complex surgery may be needed to reconstruct the urinary tract.

In addition to surgery and medication, lifestyle adjustments can also help manage hydronephrosis to a certain extent. Maintaining adequate water intake helps dilute urine and reduce the risk of stone formation. In terms of diet, reducing salt and animal protein intake and increasing fiber-rich foods can also help maintain kidney health.

The treatment of hydronephrosis is not one-size-fits-all, and each patient's situation is different. It is very important to seek medical attention in a timely manner and communicate with your doctor to develop a personalized treatment plan. Through scientific treatment and good living habits, many patients are able to effectively control the disease and maintain a good quality of life.