Patient's question:
Right kidney collecting system maximum separation dark area 0.9 cm, left kidney collecting system maximum separation dark area approximately 3.3 cm, bilateral hydronephrosis. No symptoms currently at the transition point between the renal pelvis and ureter.Doctor's answer:
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) holds that hydronephrosis is often caused by the deficiency of the spleen and kidneys, leading to impaired transportation of water and dampness; or by the obstruction of sand and stones, affecting the flow of water; or by damp-heat scorching yin, hindering qi transformation and causing blockage of water passages. Additionally, the clinical manifestations may vary depending on the location of fluid accumulation, but the underlying cause of hydronephrosis is the insufficiency of yang qi, which fails to warm and transform fluids. The accumulation of fluids leads to yang deficiency and qi damage, and yang deficiency with qi damage cannot effectively warm and transform fluid retention.The primary herbal formulas used to treat hydronephrosis include Pinellia ternata, Eucommia ulmoides, licorice, Achyranthes bidentata, Hydrangea arborescens, Rheum palmatum, Plantago asiatica, Cymbopogon scitamineus, Leonurus cardiaca, and Salvia miltiorrhiza. For patients with hydronephrosis and stones, Cistus chinensis, Dendrobium candidum, and Impatiens balsamina can be added. If the tongue is dark with petechiae, 20 mL of Luomening Injection or Compound Salvia Miltiorrhiza Injection should be administered, diluted in 250 mL of 5% glucose solution, and infused intravenously once daily. For impaired urination, Phellodendron amurense and Clematis chinensis should be added. In cases of hematuria, Baical root, Platanus orientalis, and Polygonum aviculare should be included.