If kidney stones are present, seek medical attention, particularly if they persist or recur, to minimize the risk of developing chronic unilateral obstructive uropathy. Urinary tract infections should be treated promptly and thoroughly. Blood pressure may be elevated. A urinalysis may reveal blood in the urine . A urine culture may reveal an infection.
Treatment focuses on eliminating or minimizing the obstruction.
Stents or drains placed in the ureter or in the renal pelvis may provide short-term relief of symptoms. Surgery to repair the cause of the obstruction is usually curative. The outcome varies. Damage to the kidney may be permanent. However, if the cause of the obstruction can be cured before the kidney fails, the damage may be temporary.