Glomerulonephritis

ByWeence

Glomerulonephritis: Inflammation of the glomeruli, the small blood vessels in the kidneys that filter waste products from the blood, which can impair kidney function and potentially lead to kidney failure.

Citations
Glomerulonephritis is a condition characterized by the inflammation of the glomeruli, the tiny blood vessels in the kidneys responsible for filtering waste products from the bloodstream. This inflammation can hinder the kidneys' ability to function properly, potentially leading to serious complications such as kidney failure. Understanding the symptoms, causes, and treatment options is crucial for managing this condition effectively and maintaining kidney health.

Symptoms of Glomerulonephritis

  • Blood in the urine (hematuria), which may cause urine to appear pink or brown
  • Foamy urine due to excess protein (proteinuria)
  • High blood pressure
  • Swelling in the face, hands, feet, and abdomen
  • Fatigue and decreased kidney function

Causes of Glomerulonephritis

Glomerulonephritis can result from various causes, including infections (such as strep throat), autoimmune diseases (like lupus), vasculitis, certain medications, and conditions such as diabetes. It can also occur as a primary kidney disease or secondary to another health issue.

Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the underlying cause and severity of the condition. Common approaches include:

  • Medications to control high blood pressure and reduce inflammation, such as ACE inhibitors or corticosteroids
  • Diuretics to help reduce swelling by removing excess fluid
  • Dietary changes to limit protein, salt, and potassium intake
  • Dialysis or kidney transplant in severe cases where kidney function is significantly impaired

FAQs

Can glomerulonephritis be cured? In some cases, especially if caused by an infection, it can resolve with appropriate treatment. However, chronic forms may require ongoing management. Is glomerulonephritis common? It is relatively uncommon compared to other kidney diseases but can occur at any age. How is glomerulonephritis diagnosed? Diagnosis typically involves blood and urine tests, imaging studies, and sometimes a kidney biopsy to evaluate kidney function and identify inflammation.

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