Summary about Disease
Glomerulonephritis is inflammation of the glomeruli, which are tiny filters in your kidneys that remove waste and excess fluids from the blood. This inflammation can damage the kidneys' ability to filter properly, leading to various health problems, including kidney failure. It can be acute (sudden onset) or chronic (gradual onset).
Symptoms
Hematuria (blood in the urine) - urine may appear pink, red, or cola-colored
Proteinuria (protein in the urine)
Edema (swelling) in the face, hands, feet, and abdomen
High blood pressure
Fatigue
Foamy urine
Less frequent urination
Shortness of breath
Coughs
Causes
Glomerulonephritis can have several causes, including:
Infections: Post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis (after a strep throat or skin infection), viral infections (HIV, hepatitis B, hepatitis C).
Immune diseases: Lupus, Goodpasture's syndrome, IgA nephropathy (Berger's disease).
Vasculitis: Inflammation of blood vessels (e.g., polyarteritis nodosa, granulomatosis with polyangiitis).
Other conditions: Diabetic nephropathy, high blood pressure, focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS).
Genetic factors: Some forms may have a genetic component.
Unknown: In some cases, the cause cannot be determined.
Medicine Used
Treatment depends on the cause and severity of glomerulonephritis and may include:
Medications for high blood pressure: ACE inhibitors, ARBs, diuretics.
Corticosteroids: To reduce inflammation.
Immunosuppressants: To suppress the immune system (e.g., cyclophosphamide, azathioprine, mycophenolate mofetil).
Antibiotics: If caused by a bacterial infection.
Plasma exchange (plasmapheresis): To remove antibodies from the blood in some cases.
Dialysis: If kidney failure develops.
Kidney transplant: In cases of end-stage kidney disease.
Is Communicable
Glomerulonephritis itself is generally not communicable. However, if it is caused by an infection (like post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis), the underlying infection is communicable, and preventing the spread of that infection can help prevent glomerulonephritis as a secondary consequence.
Precautions
Treat infections promptly: Especially strep throat and skin infections.
Manage underlying conditions: Control blood pressure and diabetes.
Maintain a healthy lifestyle: Diet, exercise, and avoiding smoking.
Follow medical advice: Take medications as prescribed and attend follow-up appointments.
Avoid nephrotoxic substances: Certain medications and toxins can damage the kidneys.
How long does an outbreak last?
This depends on the type of glomerulonephritis. Acute post-infectious glomerulonephritis often resolves within weeks to months with treatment. Chronic glomerulonephritis can persist for years and may lead to end-stage renal disease. The "outbreak" timeframe really applies to the causative infection, if applicable, and not the glomerulonephritis itself.
How is it diagnosed?
Urinalysis: To check for blood, protein, and other abnormalities.
Blood tests: To assess kidney function, electrolyte levels, and immune system markers.
Kidney biopsy: A small sample of kidney tissue is examined under a microscope to determine the type and extent of damage.
Imaging tests: Ultrasound or CT scans to visualize the kidneys.
Physical examination: To assess blood pressure, swelling, and other signs.
Timeline of Symptoms
The timeline of symptoms varies depending on the type of glomerulonephritis:
Acute glomerulonephritis: Symptoms may appear suddenly, within days or weeks of an infection.
Chronic glomerulonephritis: Symptoms may develop gradually over months or years, often without noticeable symptoms in the early stages.
Important Considerations
Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent kidney damage and complications.
Glomerulonephritis can lead to chronic kidney disease (CKD) and end-stage renal disease (ESRD).
Regular monitoring of kidney function is essential for people with glomerulonephritis.
Dietary modifications (e.g., limiting sodium, protein, and potassium) may be necessary.
Glomerulonephritis can affect people of all ages, but certain types are more common in specific age groups.