Glomerulonephritis refers to a collection of diseases that cause inflammation and damage to the glomeruli, the tiny filters in the kidneys responsible for filtering the blood. This condition may also be referred to as nephritis or nephrotic syndrome. When the glomeruli are damaged, the kidneys lose their ability to eliminate waste and excess fluids from the body effectively. If left untreated, the condition can progress to the point where the kidneys fail to function entirely, leading to kidney failure.

Causes

Several factors can trigger glomerulonephritis, including:

• Infections: Viral infections like HIV, hepatitis B and C.
• Toxins or Medications: Certain drugs can cause kidney inflammation.
• Autoimmune Diseases: Conditions such as lupus can lead to glomerulonephritis.
• IgA Nephropathy: A condition where an antibody called IgA builds up in the kidneys.
• Bacterial Infections: Streptococcal and staphylococcal infections.

Symptoms

Glomerulonephritis can be silent, causing significant kidney damage before symptoms appear. Common symptoms include:

• Fatigue
• High blood pressure
• Swelling in the face, hands, feet, and abdomen
• Blood in the urine (hematuria)
• Protein in the urine (proteinuria)
• Decreased urine output

These symptoms can resemble other medical conditions, so proper diagnosis by a healthcare provider is crucial.

Diagnosis

Diagnosing glomerulonephritis involves:

• Medical History and Physical Exam
• Urinalysis: Checking for red and white blood cells, infection, and protein.
• Blood Tests: Measuring waste product levels to assess kidney function.
• Kidney Ultrasound: Imaging to check for abnormalities in size or shape.
• Kidney Biopsy: Examining kidney tissue samples under a microscope.

Treatment

Treatment varies based on several factors, including age, overall health, and severity of the condition. While glomerulonephritis cannot be cured, treatments aim to slow disease progression and manage symptoms. Treatment options include:

• Blood Pressure Medications: ACE inhibitors help maintain kidney blood flow.
• Corticosteroids: Reduce inflammation and prevent scarring.
• Diuretics: Increase urine output to remove excess fluid.
• Diet Changes: Reducing protein, sodium, and potassium intake.
• Dialysis: Used when kidneys can no longer filter blood effectively.
• Kidney Transplant: Replacing the diseased kidney with a healthy donor kidney.

Complications

Even with treatment, complications can arise, potentially leading to kidney failure, requiring dialysis or a kidney transplant.

Managing Glomerulonephritis

Key points to remember include:

• It is an inflammatory condition affecting kidney filters.
• Symptoms can be subtle but include swelling, fatigue, and changes in urine.
• Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to manage the condition.
• Regular follow-ups with healthcare providers are important.

Next Steps for Patients

• Preparation for Healthcare Visits: Write down questions, bring someone for support, and note any new diagnoses or treatments.
• Medication and Treatment Awareness: Understand why treatments are prescribed and their potential side effects.
• Test Results: Know the significance of tests and their results.
• Follow-up Appointments: Keep track of future visits and their purposes.
• Communication: Ensure you know how to contact your healthcare provider with questions.

While glomerulonephritis is less common than other kidney diseases like diabetes-related nephropathy, it poses a severe health risk due to its potential to progress to kidney failure. Early detection and effective management are crucial in preventing long-term complications. Regular medical check-ups, recognizing symptoms, and adhering to prescribed treatments can significantly manage the disease. Staying informed and proactive about one’s health can lead to better outcomes and improved quality of life for those affected by glomerulonephritis.

Source: https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/glomerulonephritis