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What is Glomerulonephritis?

Glomerulonephritis refers to a group of kidney diseases characterized by inflammation of the glomeruli, the tiny blood vessels in the kidneys responsible for filtering waste and excess fluids from the blood. This inflammation can impair the kidney's ability to function properly, leading to symptoms such as proteinuria (excess protein in the urine), hematuria (blood in the urine), reduced urine output, and hypertension (high blood pressure). Glomerulonephritis can be acute, developing suddenly and often resolving with treatment, or chronic, progressing over time and potentially leading to kidney damage or failure.

Common Symptoms of a Glomerulonephritis​

Infections

Bacterial or viral infections, such as streptococcal infections (post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis), viral hepatitis, or HIV, which can trigger an immune response and inflammation in the glomeruli.

Autoimmune Diseases

Autoimmune conditions such as lupus nephritis, IgA nephropathy, or anti-glomerular basement membrane (anti-GBM) disease, in which the immune system mistakenly attacks and damages the glomeruli.

Genetic Factors

Inherited conditions such as Alport syndrome or familial nephritis, which can cause structural abnormalities in the glomeruli and predispose individuals to glomerulonephritis.

Exposure to Toxins

Certain medications (such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs [NSAIDs], antibiotics, or chemotherapy drugs), environmental toxins, or illicit drugs that can damage the kidneys and trigger inflammation in the glomeruli.

Systemic Diseases

Systemic conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, or vasculitis, which can affect the kidneys and contribute to glomerular inflammation and damage.

Proteinuria

Excretion of excess protein in the urine, leading to foamy or frothy urine and a reduced serum albumin level in the blood.

Whom to Consult?​ and When to Seek Medical Advice?​

If you experience symptoms suggestive of glomerulonephritis or have concerns about your kidney health, it’s essential to seek medical evaluation and appropriate management at SRM Global Hospitals, Chennai.
Dr. S. Krishna Kumar

Dr. S. Krishna Kumar

MBBS, MD, DM

Senior Consultant

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Dr. Tanuj Moses Lamech

Dr. Tanuj Moses Lamech

MBBS, MD, DM, DNB

Visiting Consultant

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Dr. Mathew Gerry George

Dr. Mathew Gerry George

MBBS, MD, DNB

Visiting Consultant

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Dr. Jayaprakash. V

Dr. Jayaprakash. V

MBBS, MD, DM, DNB

Visiting Consultant

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Consult our healthcare experts immediately if you experience​​

  • Severe or worsening symptoms of glomerulonephritis, such as intense flank pain, fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, or signs of kidney failure (oliguria, uremia).
  • Signs of complications such as pulmonary edema, hypertensive crisis, or acute kidney injury requiring urgent medical attention or intervention.

Common FAQs About Glomerulonephritis

Q: How is glomerulonephritis diagnosed?

A: Diagnosis of glomerulonephritis typically involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, urine tests (such as urinalysis, urine protein-to-creatinine ratio), blood tests (such as serum creatinine, serum albumin, and anti-nuclear antibody [ANA] test), imaging studies (such as ultrasound or CT scan), and kidney biopsy to assess kidney function and identify the underlying cause of glomerular inflammation.

Q: What is the treatment for glomerulonephritis?

A: Treatment for glomerulonephritis aims to reduce inflammation, manage symptoms, and prevent complications. It may include medications such as corticosteroids, immunosuppressants, or angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors or angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) to control blood pressure and reduce proteinuria. In severe cases or when kidney function is significantly impaired, dialysis or kidney transplantation may be necessary.

Q: Can glomerulonephritis be prevented?

A: While not all cases of glomerulonephritis can be prevented, adopting a healthy lifestyle, managing underlying medical conditions (such as diabetes and hypertension), avoiding nephrotoxic medications or substances, staying hydrated, and seeking prompt medical evaluation and treatment for kidney-related symptoms or concerns can help reduce the risk of developing glomerulonephritis.

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