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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.
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
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:
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.
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 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:
Designed for sterile intermittent catheterization for men with uropathy who have trouble emptying the bladder completely. Intermittent catheterization is the periodic emptying of the bladder by inserting a catheter into the urethra.
The hydrophilic coude tip catheter is activated by sterile water included in the package. The hydrophilic coating ensures that the surface of the catheter is lubricated during insertion and remains slippery for removal which helps to prevent damage to the urethra.
A 100% silicone, self-retaining balloon catheter that provides safe and comfortable catheterization. Foley catheter is deemed useful to help drain the bladder in acute obstructive uropathy. The innovative dual balloon design reduces bladder wall trauma providing a safe and comfortable means of catheterization.
Developed for easy and quick self-catheterization for women who experience urinary retention due to urinary tract obstruction can perform self-catheterization without assistance.
Featuring a latex foley catheter pre-connected to a drainage bag and the Uro-Prep tray which contains all of the materials needed for smoother insertion. The hydrogel coating it has the unique ability to absorb fluid and creates a hydrophilic cushion between the catheter surface and the urethra making it more comfortable for the patient.
Ideal for men who have the sudden urge to urinate, especially during the night. This male urinal system is used to drain urine from the urinal, through the tube, into the attached urinary bag. The attached drainage bag has an anti-reflux valve which prevents urine backflow. Easy to use and perfect for patients who find it difficult to get out of bed.
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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Sailaxmi Chennuru, has been a Health Products For You contributor since 2017. A business management graduate, the study of anatomy has always been of interest to her.
After working as a medical transcriptionist for several years, she developed a keen interest ...
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