Mild Hydronephrosis Case at Age 39
Weight: 85 kg; Height: 177 cm This is my first time sharing my experience here. I was born with a single kidney, which has resulted in it being noticeably larger compared to a typical paired set. About a year and a half ago, I began experiencing sporadic discomfort on my right side, where my kidney is located. After a series of blood tests revealed an eGFR of 61 (a decrease from 67 in 2013, likely influenced by my lifestyle), I sought further advice from my general practitioner. Eventually, I was referred to specialists in nephrology and urology. Following three ultrasounds and a CT scan, I was diagnosed with mild hydronephrosis. This condition may have stemmed from a urethral stricture dating back over 30 years, resulting from a surgical procedure. Thankfully, I have never had issues with urination and there were no stones detected. Just over two weeks ago, I underwent a procedure to dilate the stricture. Leading up to it, my discomfort was minimal, but post-surgery, I've been experiencing increased pain and occasional stinging sensations. I have brought this up with both my nephrologist and urologist and am currently awaiting their feedback. I had hoped that resolving the stricture would eliminate my previous aches, but perhaps that expectation was unrealistic. Does recovery usually take time? Also, I was somewhat frustrated by my urologist's dismissive reaction to my mention of prostatitis. I'm interested in hearing your opinions or any similar experiences you might have had.
Answers (1)
2/6/2026, 7:50:42 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you’ve been through quite a journey with your kidney health, and it’s understandable to have concerns, especially after your recent procedure. Your experience with mild hydronephrosis, along with the urethral stricture treatment, can understandably lead to questions about recovery and ongoing symptoms.
Key Points:
- Post-operative discomfort is not uncommon, and it may take time for everything to settle down.
- Hydronephrosis and any associated discomfort can be complex, especially considering your past history with a single kidney and a urethral stricture.
Explanation: After any surgical procedure, it’s typical to experience some pain and discomfort; this can be due to inflammation or the healing process. The dilation of the stricture may have caused irritation in the surrounding tissue, leading to the increased pain and stinging sensations you’re experiencing now. Recovery from this type of procedure varies among individuals and can take several weeks. While you may have hoped for an immediate resolution of your discomfort, it’s important to give your body time to heal.
Your experience with a dismissive response regarding prostatitis can also be frustrating. While strain and irritation around the urethra do not necessarily indicate prostatitis, if you continue to have pelvic pain, it may warrant a more thorough investigation.
Next Steps:
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Pain Management: Consider using over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, to help manage your discomfort. Be sure to follow package instructions and avoid if contraindicated (e.g., if you have any conditions or are on medications that may interact).
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Hydration: Ensure you are drinking plenty of fluids; this assists in flushing out your urinary system and may help with discomfort.
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of your pain, including any changes and its intensity over the next few weeks. If you notice worsening pain, fever, or changes in urination, these could be signs you need to share this information with your doctors promptly.
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Follow-Up Questions: When you hear back from your nephrologist and urologist, consider asking specific questions about your recovery timeline and when you might expect pain to decrease. If your discomfort persists, you might want to ask about potential physical therapy or other supportive treatments.
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Second Opinion: If you feel your concerns about prostatitis are not being adequately addressed, consider seeking a second opinion from another urologist for reassurance.
Healing takes time, and it's completely okay to seek more clarity from your healthcare team. You're taking important steps by asking questions and looking for support. Please continue to share your experiences and reach out when needed.
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