Q: What is Hydronephrosis?

A: Hydronephrosis means that the kidney drainage system (the renal pelvis and the ureters) has enlarged and the flow of urine from the kidney to the bladder is not smooth and efficient.

The pressure in the kidney drainage system is increased with hydronephrosis and may itself damage the kidneys.

This may be even more of a risk if you also have an infection.

Q: Can Hydronephrosis happen to anyone with a spinal cord injury?

A: Hydronephrosis may occur with any of the bladder management techniques and with any level of injury.

Unfortunately there are no symptoms of hydronephrosis that can warn you that it is developing.

Q: What can be done if I have hydronephrosis?

A: Diagnosing hydronephrosis early is one of the reasons regular check ups with your physician are important.

Many times if you discover the problem it can be reversed with a change in the bladder approach or medications to manage the problem.

If the problem is ignored it may lead to more serious problems and even occasionally may cause kidney failure.