A Family Doctor's Tale -GLOMERULONEPHRITIS

DOC I HAVE GLOMERULONEPHRITIS

Glomerulonephritis is a disease characterized by the inflammation of the glomeruli, the filtering units of the kidneys.

The glomeruli are unable to function properly due to the inflammation and allows loss of blood and protein in the urine and retention of salt, water and nitrogen.

Both kidneys are affected usually.

It is not contagious.

The exact cause of Glomerulonephritis is not known.

1.It has been suggested that an autoimmune disease is the main cause of Glomerulonephritis disease.

The antibodies produced by the body to fight germs starts to attack the body's own healthy kidney tissue.

2.Sometimes Glomerulonephritis disease may follow an infection by the streptococcus bacteria or by viruses.

Symptoms of Glomerulonephritis disease:
1.Urine may show the presence of protein, red blood cells, casts.

2.less urine is passed than normal

3.swelling of the face and legs is quite common

4.high blood pressure may occur in rare cases

5.With increasing edema and nitrogen retention, headaches, nausea and vomiting may occur.

Diagnosis of Glomerulonephritis disease is made by:

1.A history of recent infection followed by swelling of face and legs

2.Urine test for blood, protein and casts

3.Full blood count and tests for kidney function

4.Blood Tests for raised ESR,  anti-streptolysin titer, C reactive protein

5.Ultrasound of kidneys

6.Biopsy of kidney if required

Complications of Glomerulonephritis disease are:
1.Nephrotic syndrome

2.hemolytic uremic syndrome

3.renal failure

Treatment of Glomerulonephritis disease is by:
1.Diet with low salt and protein

2.Intake of fluids are restricted
These 2 measures will reduce the strain on the kidneys and prevent accumulation of fluids

3. antibiotics are given if the glomerulonephritis is suspected to be caused by a bacteria

4.hypertension is usually controlled with drugs until the blood pressure returns to normal

5.Corticosteroids and cytotoxic drugs have not been found to be effective against glomerulonephritis

Prognosis of Glomerulonephritis disease:
In most cases the illness will clear up with proper treatment.

In rare cases nephrotic syndrome may develop with ensuing chronic renal failure.