How to treat kidneys of different sizes (one larger, one smaller)?
Mar 28, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhao Xinju
Introduction
The difference in kidney size—being one larger and one smaller—is associated with conditions such as hydronephrosis, renal atrophy, and kidney tumors. A comprehensive examination should be conducted promptly, and treatment options such as medication or surgery should be selected based on the underlying cause. Additionally, this condition may result from congenital kidney malformations or other factors. After onset, adequate rest is important, and patients should actively cooperate with medical treatment to timely restore kidney function.
The difference in size between the two kidneys may be related to hydronephrosis, renal atrophy, or kidney tumors. A comprehensive examination should be conducted promptly to determine the underlying cause, followed by appropriate treatments such as medication or surgery. Specific analyses are as follows:
1. Hydronephrosis
When one kidney develops hydronephrosis, its volume becomes affected and appears larger than the normal side. After diagnosis, treatment under medical guidance may include medications such as ReLingQing Granules, Alanine Aminotransferase Glycine Capsules, or Spironolactone Capsules. In severe cases, surgical interventions such as nephrostomy or nephrectomy may be required based on the condition. Timely treatment helps alleviate hydronephrosis and promotes recovery of kidney health.
2. Renal Atrophy
Due to kidney disease or trauma, the kidney may undergo pathological shrinkage, leading to unilateral renal atrophy and thus causing a noticeable size discrepancy. Mild cases can be treated with medications prescribed by a doctor, such as Hydrochlorothiazide Tablets, Furosemide Tablets, or Roxithromycin Dispersible Tablets. In some cases, kidney transplantation may be considered when necessary, which can help restore kidney function after surgery.
3. Kidney Tumor
A tumor in one kidney can cause enlargement of that kidney, accompanied by symptoms such as hematuria (blood in urine), flank pain, and an abdominal mass. Surgery is the primary treatment approach. Depending on the specific situation, radical nephrectomy or partial nephrectomy may be performed under a physician's guidance. Post-surgery, patients should rest in bed and attend regular follow-up appointments.
In addition, congenital kidney malformations or other factors may also lead to differences in kidney size. After onset, it is important to get adequate rest and actively cooperate with medical treatment to restore kidney function promptly.
