Nephrotic Syndrome
Nephrotic Syndrome
Nephrotic syndrome refers to a kidney disorder which is characterized by too much passage of proteins in the urine. Mainly it result from the damage to the bunch of small vessels in the kidneys which ultimately affects the filtration process.
Symptoms
Nephrotic syndrome presents as :
- Swelling around the eyes, ankles and feet due to edema
- Foamy and forthy urine
- Fluid retention lead to weight gain
- Fatigue
- Weakness
- Decrease appetite
Causes
This condition is a result of damage to the glomeruli which are the cluster of small blood vessels of kidneys. As a result of this damage, protein which is meant to be in the blood seeps into the urine leading to nephrotic syndrome. Many diseases and conditions lead to nephrotic syndrome. Some of them are:
- Diabetic nephropathy
- Focal segmental glomerulosclerosis
- Membranous nephropathy
- Systemic lupus erythematosus
- Amyloidosis
Complications
- Blood clots in veins
- High cholesterol level in the body
- Anemia, low level of vitamin D and general poor nutrition
- Increase risk of infection
- Chronic kidney disease
- Increase risk of high blood pressure
- Acute and sudden kidney injury
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of nephrotic syndrome depends upon detailed medical history and complete general physical examination of the patient. Other tests include:
- Urine sample test
- Blood tests
- Biopsy of kidney tissue
Treatment
Treatment options include:
- Medications like anti-hypertensive drugs, diuretics, angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs), cholesterol-reducing medications, Blood thinners (anticoagulants).
- Immune system suppressing medications are also prescribed sometimes.
Lifestyle and home remedies
- Consuming plant-based proteins aid in kidney diseases
- Limit consumption of cholesterol rich foods
- Drink less fluids and increase low salt diet to reduce swelling