Floating kidneys is a condition in which the kidney is not firmly fastened in
its normal position and, thus, tends to move down into the pelvis when an
individual rises from a sitting position. This condition is also known as
nephroptosis, wandering kidney, or movable kidney. It is more common among young
women, usually those who are thin and have long waists.
Causes of floating kidney
The kidneys are often supported by tissue called perirenal fasciae, which is
soft tissue that is part of connective tissue. Once this supporting tissue is
weakened to the point that it cannot maintain the kidney in a natural position
any more, the kidney begins to shift. Rarely, this disease occurs due to
congenital defect. Occasionally, it is the result of injury to the kidney or a
blow to the area just above or below the kidney.
Symptoms of floating kidney
This condition may or may not cause symptoms. When symptoms are exhibited,
they can be distinctly uncomfortable and include nausea, chills, pain, elevated
blood pressure, blood or protein in the urine. In many instance, the pain fade
once the person returns to a prone position.
Treatment for floating kidney
This disorder is not one which always requires treatment. When it does, the
treatment needed depends on the severity of the condition.
For people whose symptoms are not serious and there is no infection or stones
present, the wearing of a supporting belt, the use of exercises to strengthen
the muscles, and weight gain may be helpful. However, in severe cases, a surgery
procedure known as nephropexy is performed and the kidney is fixed firmly in its
natural position.
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