What is Reflux Nephropathy

Reflux nephropathy can be defined as a condition of renal damage caused by backward flow of urine into the kidney. Reflux Nephropathy is also known as a Ureteral reflux, Vesico-ureteric reflux and Chronic atrophic pyelonephritis.

Causes of Reflux Nephropathy

In our body the urine flows from kidneys, through the ureters and into the bladder. Each ureter has a one way valve ( Where it enters the bladder ). It prevents urine from flowing back up the ureter. When these valve fails and unable to stop the urine to flow back up to the kidney, Reflux Nephropathy occurs. Reflux Nephropathy mostly occurs in the persons whose ureters go not extend very far into the bladder. Some other kidney disese also may results reflux Nephropathy such as Bladder stones, Bladder outlet obstruction, Abnormal ureters , Bladder infection and Neurogenic Bladder.

Signs and Symptoms of Reflux Nephropathy

Common symptoms of Reflux Nephropathy are given below -
1) Urinary tract infection
2) Blooded urine
3) Foamy or dark urine
4) Flank pain
5) Back pain
6) Abdominal pain
7) Frequently urination
Fever, Chills, Urinary hesitancy , vomiting ,nail abnormalities are some additional symptoms.

Treatment of Reflux Nephropathy

If the Reflux Nephropathy is not severe then the treatment can be done by antibiotics ( to control infection ) , annual ultrasound of kidney , careful watching. In the severe cases proper treatment is necessary. Ureteral reimplantation and Reconstructive repair can be done in the severe cases.

Prevention

The prompt treatment of the disease that causes reflux nephropathy may prevent reflux nephropathy from developing.