Glomerulonephritis: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment and Cost

Glomerulonephritis is a kind of kidney illness that manifests itself when the glomeruli, which are essentially microscopic clusters of capillaries, in the kidneys become inflamed and damaged. Due to the injury, there is a possibility that proteins and other molecules will pass from the circulation into the urine.

It can be divided into two main categories:

• Primary Glomerulonephritis: This includes diseases such as IgA nephropathy, membranous nephropathy, membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis, focal segmental glomerulosclerosis, and crescentic glomerulonephritis. These diseases are caused by an immune system disorder that results in inflammation of the glomeruli.
• Secondary Glomerulonephritis: It is caused by other underlying conditions such as infections (bacterial or viral), systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), vasculitis (inflammation of blood vessels), or diabetes mellitus. In this case, the underlying condition causes damage to the kidney which then leads to inflammation of the glomeruli.

Glomerulonephritis can be caused by:

• Infections (general cause)
• Autoimmune conditions
• Genetic disorders and exposure to certain drugs or toxins.

The following are some of the most often experienced symptoms of glomerulonephritis:

• Swelling of the face, hands, feet, abdomen, or legs.
• Foamy urine or blood in the urine.
• High blood pressure
• Fatigue
• Decreased urination or dark coloured urine.
• Flank pain (pain that occurs on the side of your body between your abdomen and back).
• Gain in weight due to the retention of fluids, a decrease or loss in appetite.

There is no surefire way to prevent glomerulonephritis.some of the methods to prevent glomerulonephritis include:

• Controlling high blood pressure.
• Avoiding certain medications that can cause kidney damage.
• Managing existing medical conditions such as diabetes and lupus.
• Protecting against tick bites that carry Lyme disease.
• Refraining from using drugs or alcohol.

There are several laboratory tests that can be used to diagnose glomerulonephritis. Some common tests include:

• Urinalysis: This test looks for abnormal levels of protein, red and white blood cells, and other substances in the urine.
• Blood test: The levels of creatinine and urea in the blood, which might be increased in individuals who have renal disease, are measured by this test.
• Biopsy: During this process, a tiny sample of kidney tissue is taken and analysed further under a microscope for any indications of glomerulonephritis.
• Imaging tests: The kidneys may be visualised with the use of these tests, such as an ultrasound or a CT scan, so that any abnormalities can be located and examined.
• Other tests: Other tests that may be used to diagnose glomerulonephritis include a kidney function test, a blood pressure test, and a blood test to check for signs of infection.

Some of the important complications of Glomerulonephritis include:

• Proteinuria, as well as high blood pressure (excess protein in the urine).
• Anaemia (low red blood cell count).
• Fluid retention which leads to swelling.
• Electrolyte imbalances which lead to kidney failure.
• Other complications may include recurrent infections and decreased immunity.
• If left untreated, glomerulonephritis can lead to end-stage renal disease.

• Drink plenty of water: Drinking plenty of water helps to flush out toxins from the body, which in turn reduces the strain on the kidneys and helps in reducing inflammation caused by glomerulonephritis.
• Include anti-inflammatory herbs in your diet: Herbs like turmeric, ginger, holy basil, and cinnamon are beneficial for reducing inflammation caused by glomerulonephritis. They can be mixed into meals or consumed separately as dietary supplements.
• Take herbal teas: Herbal teas such as chamomile tea can help reduce inflammation caused by glomerulonephritis and also provide relief from symptoms such as fatigue and headache associated with it.
• Consume healthy fats: Healthy fats like omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil, nuts and seeds can help reduce inflammation caused by glomerulonephritis as well as provide relief from symptoms such as fatigue and headache associated with it .

Some specific dietary recommendations for glomerulonephritis include:

• Make sure you eat enough of fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as whole grains, lean proteins like chicken, fish, and beans, and beans.
• Choose dairy products with a lower amount of fat or alternatives made from plants, such as almond milk or soy milk.
• Drink plenty of water to help flush toxins from the body and keep your kidneys functioning properly.

• Avoid processed and high-salt foods, including fast food, canned soups, and frozen dinners.
• Avoid alcohol and limit your intake of caffeine, as these can be dehydrating.
• Avoid foods that are high in potassium, such as bananas, oranges, and potatoes.
• Steer clear of processed meals, fast food, and snack foods because they are rich in salt and should be avoided.

• Lifestyle Changes: There are some lifestyle changes you can make to manage symptoms of glomerulonephritis and improve overall health such as following a low sodium diet, reducing stress levels, avoiding smoking or alcohol consumption, exercising regularly, and drinking plenty of fluids such as water or herbal teas.
• Renal transplantation: A healthy kidney is surgically implanted into a recipient who already has kidney failure or glomerulonephritis during the transplantation process that is known as renal transplantation. It is sometimes the only method available for treating end-stage renal illness and is frequently regarded as the most effective long-term therapy for patients who suffer from glomerulonephritis.
• Peritoneal dialysis: Peritoneal dialysis is a type of dialysis which uses the lining of the patient's abdomen (the peritoneum) as a filter to remove waste products and excess fluid from the blood.
• Hemodialysis: Patients who suffer from glomerulonephritis are often candidates for the medical technique known as hemodialysis, which is used to treat kidney failure. In the process of hemodialysis, the patient's blood is cleansed of waste materials and excess fluids by passing it through a machine that simulates the function of the kidneys.

A doctor specialising in nephrology should be consulted for Glomerulonephritis. Nephrologists specialise in diagnosing and treating diseases of the kidneys, including glomerulonephritis.

Treatment for glomerulonephritis without surgery typically involves medications such as:

• Analgesics: Anti-inflammatory drugs (such as ibuprofen and naproxen) to reduce swelling and pain.
• Antibiotics: Antibiotics to treat any underlying infections.
• Blood pressure regulators: Blood pressure medications to help control high blood pressure, which can be a complication of glomerulonephritis.
• Diuretics: Diuretics (water pills) to help reduce fluid buildup in the body.
• Immunosuppressive: Immunosuppressive drugs such as cyclophosphamide, azathioprine, and mycophenolate mofetil to reduce inflammation in the kidneys.
• Iron supplements: Iron supplements are used if anaemia is present.
• Supplements: Vitamin D and calcium supplements if vitamin D or calcium levels are low due to kidney problems.
• Corticosteroids: These drugs can reduce inflammation in your kidneys and help prevent further damage. Example - prednisolone.

• The recovery time for Glomerulonephritis can vary depending on the severity of the condition and the individual.
• In general, a full recovery might take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months, although it usually takes between two and three weeks.
• It is important to follow your doctor’s advice closely to ensure a successful recovery.

• The results of treatment for glomerulonephritis vary depending on the severity and type of glomerulonephritis.
• In cases of mild glomerulonephritis, the patient may experience full recovery, while in more severe cases, patients may experience partial or no recovery.
• For those with chronic glomerulonephritis, a remission period can be achieved with proper treatment but there is no guarantee that the symptoms will not recur.
• Therefore, it is not possible to definitively state whether treatment results are permanent or not.

• Maintain a healthy lifestyle: Eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly and avoiding drugs and alcohol can help support kidney health.
• Follow prescribed medications: Your doctor may recommend medications to reduce inflammation, improve kidney function and slow the progression of disease.
• Monitor kidney function: Have your doctor regularly monitor your urine and blood tests to check your kidney function and progress in treatment.
• Avoid certain foods: Avoid foods high in sodium, potassium, phosphorus or acidity as these can increase fluid retention and worsen symptoms of glomerulonephritis.
• Get enough rest: Resting is important to allow your body time to heal properly after surgery or other treatments for glomerulonephritis.
• Monitor for complications: Signs of complications from glomerulonephritis may include fatigue, swelling or changes in urination patterns; contact your doctor if any of these occur.

• The cost of treating Glomerulonephritis in India can vary widely depending on the severity of the condition and the type of treatment required.
• Generally, costs for medications and tests may range from a few hundred to several thousand rupees, while hospitalisation and dialysis can cost anywhere from a few thousand to lakhs of rupees.
• Additionally, costs for any necessary surgeries or transplants will be significantly higher.

Common side effects of glomerulonephritis treatments include:

• Headache, Dizziness and Nausea
• Symptoms include Nausea and Diarrhoea
• Loss of appetite
• Fatigue, fever and skin rash are also seen in some patients.

If you are suffering from any complications relating to Glomerulonephritis then you should consult a doctor nearby as they can cause complications like 'High blood pressure, proteinuria, Anaemia, kidney failure' in which treatment courses can range from a few months to years depending on the severity of the situation.