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Glomerulonephritis: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment
Understanding Glomerulonephritis
Glomerulonephritis occurs when the glomeruli are damaged or inflamed. These structures filter waste, excess salts, and fluids from the blood to produce urine. Inflammation reduces their filtering ability, leading to waste buildup, fluid retention, and other complications.
Acute glomerulonephritis usually appears suddenly, often after infections such as streptococcal throat or skin infections.
Chronic glomerulonephritis develops gradually over months or years and may result from autoimmune diseases, long-standing hypertension, or other causes of sustained kidney injury.
Causes of Glomerulonephritis
Glomerulonephritis can be triggered by several factors:
- Post-infectious: Following bacterial infections such as streptococcal throat or skin infections
- Autoimmune diseases: Lupus, IgA nephropathy, and Goodpasture syndrome
- Chronic conditions: Long-standing hypertension and diabetes can worsen glomerular damage and accelerate disease progression
- Medications: Certain drugs (e.g., NSAIDs) may worsen kidney injury in susceptible individuals
- Genetic factors: Inherited conditions such as Alport syndrome
Understanding the cause is essential to guide treatment and prevent recurrence.
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Key Symptoms of Acute and Chronic Glomerulonephritis
Diagnosis of GlomerulonephritisAccurate diagnosis involves a combination of tests:
Also Read: 10 Foods that Cause Kidney Stones Treatment of GlomerulonephritisTreatment aims to control inflammation, protect kidney function, and address the underlying cause.
Acute cases may recover completely, while chronic forms require long-term follow-up.
ConclusionGlomerulonephritis can have a serious impact on kidney health, but early diagnosis and proper treatment can help slow or prevent disease progression. Being aware of the symptoms and seeking timely medical care is essential. For expert evaluation and personalized treatment, consulting a nephrologist in Lucknow at Regency Hospitals can ensure the best care and support for maintaining healthy kidney function. Also Read: Chronic Kidney Disease: Symptoms, Diagnosis and Treatment Options Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)What are the three types of glomerulonephritis?Acute, chronic, and rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis. Can glomerulonephritis be cured?Acute cases may resolve completely with treatment, while chronic forms usually require long-term or lifelong management. Which immune diseases cause glomerulonephritis?Autoimmune conditions such as lupus, IgA nephropathy, Goodpasture syndrome, and vasculitis can lead to glomerulonephritis. Can exercise reverse kidney disease?Exercise supports overall health and kidney function but cannot reverse established kidney damage. What damages the kidneys the most?Uncontrolled high blood pressure, diabetes, chronic inflammation, and recurrent infections are major causes of kidney damage. |
