Ureteric obstruction and kidney function are invariably linked. This is mainly because ureteric obstructions prohibit the flow of urine out of the kidney. The obstructions cause urine backflow into the kidneys which can cause a number of kidney problems. And if not treated in a timely manner, it can even cause total kidney failure. One of the most interesting things about the connection between renal function and ureteric strictures is that they can each cause the other. Problems in kidney function such as kidney stones can lead to ureteric strictures, and strictures can cause renal impairment. So, now that you know the basics, let’s dive deeper and learn about all the different ways strictures can affect your kidneys.

How Are Ureteric Strictures & Kidney Function Connected?

Obstruction In Urine Flow

Obstruction in urine flow is one of the primary concerns of ureteric strictures. This leads to backflow of urine into the kidney, which has adverse effects on your kidney health. It causes a condition known as hydronephrosis. This condition causes the kidney to swell and stretch due to the urine buildup inside them. The process stresses the delicate kidney tissues and can affect the normal functioning of the kidneys.

If left untreated, this condition can lead to total kidney failure which can be fatal for the patient. Also, obstruction in urine flow out of the kidneys increases the risk of several other medical conditions like kidney stones and kidney inflammation also known as glomerulonephritis. The only way to resolve this problem is to get treatment for the strictures and allow urine to pass out of the kidneys.

Infection & Inflammation in The Kidneys

Urinary tract infections are one of the most common side effects of ureteric strictures. They are caused because of the stagnant residual urine in the kidneys and the urinary tract. In the case of ureteric strictures, UTIs are not the only thing that you are at risk for; kidney infections like pyelonephritis are also possible. These infections affect the normal functioning of the kidneys by damaging the delicate kidney tissues. 

Urinary tract infections also increase the risk of other urological conditions like urethral strictures, gynecological problems in women, and benign prostatic hyperplasia in men. And as you age, UTIs and kidney inflammation take a toll on your health. And with the limited functioning of vital organs like your kidneys, it can make you seriously ill and have catastrophic effects on your overall immunity.

Decreased Kidney Function

Excreting toxins and waste from the body, regulating fluid levels, filtering waste products, and managing electrolyte balance. These are some of the most important functions of the kidneys. When you have ureteric strictures that cause urine backflow into the kidneys, the kidneys can’t correctly perform these functions. What is the result of that? 

Your heart is under more stress and needs to work harder to pump more blood to the kidneys; this can lead to heart problems if it persists. Similarly, fluid retention in your body can lead to inflammation in your limbs and lower extremities. And with waste buildup in your body, your health is put at risk in various ways.

Decreased kidney function can be the starting of kidney failure over time, and if the strictures and the other health concerns are not treated, it can become fatal. So, decreased kidney function is one of the most serious effects of ureteric strictures and kidney damage.

Kidney Stone Formation

Kidney stones can be formed by ureteric strictures. The stagnation of urine in the kidneys can lead to the formation of kidney stones if left untreated. Urine has a high concentration of uric acid, which is one of the substances that crystalizes and forms kidney stones. Plus, uric acid is not the only compound. The stagnation of urine can invite the crystallization of other compounds like calcium as well.

Kidney stones on top of ureteric strictures can have severe effects on the health. Stricture that doesn’t allow the passage of urine normally, will also prohibit the passage of kidney stones. Plus, recurrent kidney stones due to strictures can create injuries in the ureter, which can lead to more strictures in the future. The injuries can be sustained while passing the stones.

And lastly, kidney stones are painful and can cause severe back pain combined with the pain during urination when you have to pass them out of your body.

How To Prevent Ureteric Strictures To Keep Your Kidneys Healthy?

Now that you know all the different ways ureteric strictures and renal impairment are connected with one another, it is time you learn how to prevent the condition. It will help you maintain optimum renal health and keep yourself safe from a lot of urological and health conditions. Also, do note that these conditions generally affect people over the age of 40, so certain lifestyle changes are required to ensure you are safe from strictures. With that being said, here are some of the best ways to prevent ureteric strictures.

• Practice Safe Sex: You have a higher risk of getting ureteric strictures if you have STIs or STDs, so practicing safe sex is crucial if you want to prevent ureteric strictures.
   
• Try & Limit Red Meat Consumption: As you age, your body’s ability to process food goes down, and having a lot of red meat as you age, puts a lot of stress on your kidneys. This can lead to urological problems, leading to strictures, so try and limit your intake.
   
• Stop smoking and Drinking: Smoking and drinking alcohol have adverse effects on your health in different ways. It has similar effects on your kidneys too and makes you five times more likely to get kidney issues if you don’t quit them as you age.
   
• Maintain Active Lifestyle: As you age, your body loses tissue elasticity. This can be one of the causes of strictures, so make sure you exercise regularly and maintain an active lifestyle. It will help you limit your risk of getting strictures.
   
• Try & Protect Yourself Against Injuries: Injuries to your stomach, lower back, and pelvic region are the number one cause of ureteric strictures. So, try and keep yourself safe against injuries and you will be able to limit your risk of strictures.

Conclusion

Ureteric strictures are inherently connected with kidney function and less than optimal kidney function increases your risk for ureteric strictures. As inescapable as that cycle may seem, it is possible to keep yourself safe from the risks by getting your treatment for any and all urological conditions from top medical institutions like MASSH. We specialize in the treatment of all types of urological conditions with state-of-the-art minimally invasive surgeries. Our team of experts are experienced in treating all types of kidney and urological conditions with quick recovery devoid of the risks of recurrence. Visit our website to learn more about our treatment options or book an appointment today.