Nephritis, which means “inflammation of the kidney” in Greek, can be caused by various factors, including infections, autoimmune disorders, and toxins in the body.
Glomerulonephritis, also known as glomerular disease, occurs when the internal structures of the kidneys, called glomeruli, become inflamed. This condition can be acute or chronic and leads to the loss of proteins, as well as white and red blood cells, into the urine. It can be triggered by infections like chickenpox, malaria, or strep throat. Initially, symptoms may be mild, including swollen feet, cloudy or bloody urine, and nausea. As the condition progresses, it can cause shortness of breath, high blood pressure, abdominal pain, and even seizures. Urine and blood tests are essential for diagnosing glomerulonephritis. Treatment often involves a combination of a healthy diet, prescribed medications for high blood pressure, and antibiotics to address infections.
Membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis (MPGN) is more common in children and teenagers. Over time, inflammation leads to scarring in the glomeruli, potentially resulting in chronic kidney disease (CKD) or end-stage renal disease (ESRD). Symptoms may include blood in the urine, abdominal swelling, edema in the eyes, feet, and legs, and fluid retention. Urine and blood tests, such as creatinine tests, are used to diagnose MPGN. Treatment options include steroid medications, monitoring and managing protein in the urine, and the use of ACE inhibitors and ARBs to prevent protein loss. Diet can also play a crucial role in managing MPGN.
Interstitial nephritis involves inflammation of kidney cells that are not part of the fluid-collecting units and can lead to acute renal failure or kidney disease. Allergic reactions or side effects from medications like antibiotics or long-term use of acetaminophen (found in Tylenol) or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can be underlying causes. Symptoms may include blood in the urine, swelling, weight gain, nausea, and fever. Diagnostic tests such as urinalysis, kidney biopsies, blood counts, and blood creatinine levels can help identify interstitial nephritis. Treatment involves limiting dietary sodium and avoiding medications that may have triggered the condition.
IgA nephropathy, also known as Berger’s disease, is characterized by inflammation of the glomeruli, leading to the presence of blood and protein in the urine due to impaired waste filtration. Symptoms may include high blood pressure, blood in the urine, side pain, edema, and flu-like symptoms. Diagnosis typically involves urine and blood tests, along with kidney biopsies. While there is no known prevention or cure for IgA nephropathy, doctors can prescribe blood pressure medication and vitamin E to reduce proteinuria based on symptom severity.
Pyelonephritis is a urinary tract infection that progresses from the bladder to the kidney’s pelvis, making it a form of nephritis. Kidney stones, bladder infections, catheter use, and urinary tract defects can cause pyelonephritis. Symptoms may include blood and pus in the urine, pain during urination, back and side pain, and frequent or urgent urination. Diagnostic tests like X-rays may be used to identify abnormalities in the kidneys, bladder, and ureters. Treatment involves antibiotics and addressing any underlying causes to prevent recurrence, with surgical intervention in severe cases.
Inflammation related to autoimmune disorders can affect various organs, including the kidneys. Autoimmune disorders involve the body’s immune system mistakenly attacking its tissues.
Lupus nephritis is an inflammatory disease where the immune system targets different body parts, including the kidneys, heart, lungs, skin, joints, nervous system, and blood vessels. Although the exact cause is unknown, factors like gender, heredity, viruses, infections, and environmental factors may contribute. Symptoms range from swelling of the extremities to hypertension and dark urine. Diagnosis involves urine and blood tests, along with kidney biopsies. Management may include dietary adjustments to lower specific mineral intake, and treatment depends on symptom severity.
Goodpasture’s syndrome is a rare autoimmune disorder affecting both the kidneys and lungs, potentially leading to kidney failure and lung disease. Symptoms may include coughing up blood, fatigue, breathing difficulties, and nausea. Diagnosis typically involves blood tests. Treatment may include immunosuppressive drugs and, in severe cases, a kidney transplant.
Wegener’s granulomatosis affects the kidneys, upper respiratory tract, lungs, eyes, ears, as well as the nervous system, heart, skin, and joints. The causes remain unknown. Symptoms may include a persistent runny nose, eye irritation, coughing up blood, fatigue, joint pain, and ear infections. Diagnostic tools include blood tests, urine tests, chest X-rays, and biopsies. Treatment may involve immunosuppressive drugs or, in some cases, a kidney transplant. Recovery is likely for many patients.
Specific medications may be prescribed by your doctor to treat kidney inflammatory diseases, depending on the type of condition. It is important to consult your doctor before taking NSAIDs like ibuprofen or aspirin, as these medications are generally not recommended for people with kidney disease. Additionally, discussing your kidney diet with a renal dietitian can be beneficial.
