Overview
Glomerulonephritis is inflammation of the tiny filters in the kidneys (glomeruli). It can occur on its own or as part of another disease, such as lupus or diabetes. Symptoms may include blood in the urine, protein in the urine, high blood pressure, swelling, and fatigue. Glomerulonephritis can lead to a breakdown in the kidneys' ability to filter the bloodstream efficiently, resulting in the accumulation of wastes or toxins in the bloodstream and poor regulation of essential minerals and nutrients. Possible complications include acute kidney failure, IgA nephropathy, and vasculitis.
Understanding the disease
Symptoms
Glomerulonephritis is a condition characterized by inflammation of the tiny filters in the kidneys (glomeruli). The symptoms may vary depending on the type (acute or chronic) and the cause. Some common symptoms of glomerulonephritis include:
- Pink or cola-colored urine from red blood cells in the urine (hematuria)
- Foamy or bubbly urine due to excess protein in the urine (proteinuria)
- High blood pressure (hypertension)
- Fluid retention (edema) with swelling in the face, hands, feet, and abdomen
- Urinating less than usual
- Nausea and vomiting
- Muscle cramps
- Fatigue If you experience any of these symptoms, it is crucial to see your healthcare provider promptly for a proper evaluation and appropriate treatment.
Risk Factors
Risk factors for developing glomerulonephritis include:
- Family history of kidney disease
- Abnormal kidney structure
- Obesity
- Frequent use of medications that can damage the kidneys
Development
Glomerulonephritis can develop in several ways, depending on the underlying cause. Here are some of the ways glomerulonephritis can develop:
- Inflammation due to an immune response: In some cases, glomerulonephritis occurs when the body's immune system mistakenly attacks the glomeruli, causing inflammation. This can happen in response to an infection, such as post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis, or as part of an autoimmune disease like lupus.
- Vasculitis: Certain types of vasculitis, such as polyarteritis and granulomatosis with polyangiitis, can cause inflammation in the glomeruli and lead to glomerulonephritis. Vasculitis is inflammation of blood vessels, and it can affect various organs and tissues, including the kidneys.
- Sclerotic conditions: Certain diseases or conditions that cause scarring of the glomeruli can lead to glomerulonephritis. These include conditions like lupus nephritis, which is a complication of lupus, and amyloidosis, which is a build-up of abnormal protein deposits in the tissues.
- Infections: Infections can directly or indirectly lead to glomerulonephritis. Post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis is an example of an infection that can cause glomerulonephritis. Other infections, such as bacterial endocarditis and viral kidney infections, can also lead to glomerulonephritis. It is important to note that glomerulonephritis can have multiple causes and can develop in different ways. Proper diagnosis and treatment by a healthcare professional is necessary to manage glomerulonephritis effectively.
Assessment and Diagnosis
Triage
If you have signs or symptoms of glomerulonephritis, you should make an appointment with your health care provider promptly. Glomerulonephritis can come on suddenly (acute) or gradually (chronic), and its symptoms may include pink or cola-colored urine from red blood cells in your urine (hematuria), foamy or bubbly urine due to excess protein in the urine (proteinuria), high blood pressure (hypertension), fluid retention (edema) with swelling evident in your face, hands, feet and abdomen, urinating less than usual, nausea and vomiting, muscle cramps, and fatigue.
Diagnosis
To diagnose glomerulonephritis, your doctor will likely perform a combination of tests to assess your kidney function and identify any signs of inflammation or damage. The following tests may be used to diagnose glomerulonephritis:
- Urine test: A urinalysis can reveal signs of poor kidney function, such as red blood cells and proteins that should not be in urine or white blood cells that are a sign of inflammation.
- Blood tests: Analysis of blood samples can reveal higher than expected levels of waste products in the bloodstream, the presence of antibodies that may indicate an autoimmune disorder, bacterial or viral infection, or blood sugar levels indicating diabetes.
- Imaging tests: If your doctor detects evidence of kidney disease, he or she may recommend imaging tests like an X-ray, an ultrasound exam, or a CT scan to show irregularities in the shape or size of the kidney.
- Kidney biopsy: This procedure involves using a special needle to extract small pieces of kidney tissue to look at under a microscope. A biopsy can confirm a diagnosis and assess the degree and nature of tissue damage. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.
Management and Treatment
Complications
Potential complications of glomerulonephritis include acute kidney failure, accumulation of wastes or toxins in the bloodstream, poor regulation of essential minerals and nutrients, loss of red blood cells, loss of blood proteins, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and rapid progressive glomerulonephritis.
Treatment
The treatments for glomerulonephritis depend on the type of glomerulonephritis you have and the underlying cause. In some cases, the condition may resolve on its own. However, in more severe cases, treatment may be necessary to prevent further damage to the kidneys and manage symptoms. Some treatment options may include:
- Medications: Depending on the underlying cause, your healthcare provider may prescribe medications to help manage your condition. These may include antibiotics to treat infections, medications to control high blood pressure or blood sugar, or immunosuppressants to help manage autoimmune disorders like lupus.
- Lifestyle changes: Making certain lifestyle changes can help prevent complications and manage symptoms associated with glomerulonephritis. These may include maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, controlling high blood pressure, and managing your blood sugar levels if you have diabetes.
- Dialysis: In severe cases of acute kidney failure, dialysis may be necessary to remove waste and fluids from the bloodstream until kidney function improves.
- Kidney transplant: In very advanced cases of chronic kidney disease, a kidney transplant may be considered as a last resort to replace the damaged kidneys. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and tailored treatment plan based on your individual case.
Preparing for medical consultation
To prepare for an appointment for glomerulonephritis, you should make a list of your symptoms, including any unrelated ones and when they started. Also, list all your medications, vitamins, and supplements you take, including doses. It is essential to provide your medical history, especially any kidney diseases in your family. Additionally, you can ask your doctor about support groups in your community, and aim for at least 30 minutes of physical activity most days of the week. Consider bringing a family member or friend along to help remember the information provided during the appointment. Prepare a list of questions, such as the most likely cause of your symptoms, other possible causes, necessary tests, and available treatment options.