Glomerulonephritis


Glomerulonephritis refers to the inflammation of the glomeruli, the tiny filters in the kidneys that remove waste from the blood. This inflammation can be triggered by various factors, including infections, autoimmune diseases, or other underlying conditions. Over time, if not treated or managed, it can cause significant damage to the kidneys, potentially leading to kidney failure.

Types of Glomerulonephritis


Acute glomerulonephritis – When the disease happens suddenly. It can get better by treating the cause so the right treatment should be started as soon as possible.

Chronic glomerulonephritis – When it develops silently (without symptoms) over several years. It can lead to kidney failure. Treatment can help keep the disease from getting worse.

Rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis – Loss of kidney function over a very short period (days to weeks).

Signs and symptoms
Causes/Risk factors
Treatments

Signs and symptoms

  • Protein in the urine (albuminuria/proteinuria)
  • Blood in the urine (hematuria)
  • High blood pressure
  • Swelling of your ankles or face (edema)
  • Frequent nighttime urination

Foamy urine, often associated with the presence of protein (albuminuria or proteinuria), can sometimes suggest kidney problems, as healthy kidneys typically filter protein effectively. If you notice consistently foamy urine, it’s a good idea to consult a healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation.
Dark or cola-colored urine, on the other hand, may suggest hematuria (blood in the urine), which could point to various conditions, including urinary tract infections (UTIs), kidney stones, or more serious kidney or bladder issues. It’s also true that certain medications, foods, or even food dyes can lead to changes in urine color, but it’s important to rule out any medical causes if the change is unexpected or persistent.
If you’re uncertain about what’s causing these changes, reaching out to us and we can perform tests, such as a urine analysis, to determine the underlying cause.

Treatments

  • Treatment Plan: Treatment will depend on the underlying cause of glomerulonephritis, and a healthcare team will collaborate with the patient to create a plan. The goal is to prevent further kidney damage and manage the disease effectively.
  • Potential Complications: Glomerulonephritis can progress to kidney failure, which may require dialysis or a kidney transplant.
  • Medications:
    • ACE Inhibitors or ARBs: These are used to control high blood pressure and reduce protein in the urine, a common issue with glomerulonephritis.
    • Diuretics (Water Pills): These help remove excess fluid from the body to treat edema (swelling).
    • Prednisone (Steroids): This immunosuppressant is used to reduce inflammation and prevent the immune system from damaging the kidneys. Other immunosuppressants may be prescribed if needed.
    • Additional Medications: The exact medications depend on the specific disease causing glomerulonephritis. Always consult the healthcare team before using over-the-counter medicines or supplements.
  • Nutrition:
    • Low Salt & Cholesterol: A diet low in salt helps control blood pressure and reduce swelling. Lowering cholesterol helps reduce the risk of heart disease.
    • Fluid Intake: Depending on the condition, fluid intake might need to be reduced.
    • Dietitian Consultation: A registered dietitian should be consulted to help adjust your diet appropriately.
  • Regular Medical Visits:
    • Consistent follow-up with healthcare providers is essential to monitor the condition and adjust treatment plans as needed.
Glomerulonephritis Or Glomerular Nephritis. Kidney Disease

Causes/Risk Factors

  • Infections: Strep throat, pneumococcus, chickenpox, malaria, etc.
  • Immune System Disorders: Lupus, Goodpasture syndrome, IgA nephropathy, membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis.
  • Inherited Conditions: Alport syndrome.
  • Immune System Involvement:
  • The body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the kidneys, leading to damage in the glomeruli. This impairs their ability to filter out waste and water. When this happens, blood and protein can leak into the urine.
  • Nephrotic Syndrome:
  • A complication that arises when the kidneys lose a significant amount of protein in the urine. This leads to a decrease in blood protein levels, causing swelling and other issues.

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