Kidney Obstruction

Kidney obstruction can be congenital or acquired and there may be a risk of damage to the kidney. Surgery is sometimes required to clear the blockage and protect the kidneys.

Kidney Health in Children

The kidneys are organs that produce urine by filtering waste products out of the bloodstream. Urine flows from the kidneys down the ureters and into the bladder, where it will be stored before it leaves the body via the urethra. Since the kidneys are always working to remove waste from the body, it is important for urine to be able to flow out of them and into the bladder. Any obstruction in the kidneys or along the urinary tract can block this flow and cause problems for the kidneys. A blockage could cause urine to build up in the kidneys or to flow back into them from the urinary tract. The kidneys could swell up and be at risk of damage or urinary infections.

Signs of Kidney Obstruction

Possible signs of kidney obstruction in children can include:

• changes in the flow of urine, which could be decreased or increased depending on the cause of the problem
• needing to urinate more often
• pain in the back or side, usually between the ribs and the hip
• Vomiting

Causes of Kidney Obstruction in Children

Kidney obstruction in children is often the result of structural abnormalities that were present at birth. The tubes that carry urine out of the kidneys may be narrower than they should be or there could be a defect blocking the flow of urine.

Another cause of obstruction can be the formation of renal stones (calculi) that can block the passage into the ureter or be stuck in the ureter itself.

Sometimes there is only a partial blockage, so urine can still flow past it, but in other cases there can be a complete blockage of the urinary tract preventing any urine from leaving the kidney. In many cases, the problem will only affect one kidney, but it is also possible for both kidneys to be affected by blockages.

Treatments for Kidney Obstruction

Kidney obstruction can increase the risk of developing urinary tract infections, which can be very serious when they occur in the upper urinary tract or kidneys. If the blockage is causing pressure to build up inside the kidney, then it could also damage the delicate tubes inside the organ. A damaged kidney will not be able to perform its function properly, which can lead to serious problems.

Since most kidney obstructions in children are due to structural defects, the main treatment option will be to clear the blockage surgically.

If you're concerned about the possible impact of a kidney obstruction on your child's health, then it is important to consult a specialist. A paediatric urologist can advise you on the best approach to treat the condition and whether surgery is needed.