What is glomerulonephritis?
It is a pathology that damages the tiny renal units that take care of the filtering process, called glomeruli. People suffering from glomerulonephritis see the correct functioning of the kidneys altered and their glomeruli become irritated and swollen (inflammation).
If glomerulonephritis occurs suddenly, it is acute, and when it develops over several years, it is chronic.
The glomeruli become inflamed and the kidneys do not function properly.
Symptoms of glomerulonephritis
- Red or dark brown urine.
- Decreased urine formation.
- It is necessary a greater respiratory effort.
- Tiredness and hypertension.
- Pallor of skin and mucous membranes.
- Edema.
What are the causes of glomerulonephritis?
The exact cause of glomerulonephritis is often unknown. However, in many cases it is due to an alteration in the immune system. Most of the time it consists of an autoimmune disease, where the body manufactures antibodies against some element of the kidney tissue, damaging its own kidneys, which causes inflammatory alterations.
Can it be prevented?
In many cases, glomerulonephritis can be diagnosed through laboratory tests before symptoms or signs appear. Although it cannot be detected by regular urine tests, it can be detected early and therefore treated more easily.
In general terms, kidney disease can also be prevented by optimal hydration of the kidneys and urinary tract, for example by drinking sufficient fluids and avoiding smoking.
What is the treatment?
Treatment may vary depending on the type of glomerulonephritis. Fortunately, many times the pathology improves on its own and, if not, doctors can do several things to make it remit.
-Acute glomerulonephritis.
-Treatment of edema with diuretic drugs.
-Treatment of high blood pressure.
-If it is due to a bacterial infection, antibiotics are used.
-Chronic glomerulonephritis
-Treatment of high blood pressure.
-Body water control.
Low-protein diet.