Glomerulonephritis

Acute glomerulonephritis is an inflammation of the glomeruli, bundles of tiny vessels inside the kidneys. Usually affecting children 2-12 years of age, the damaged glomeruli lose the ability to effectively filter out waste and excess water from the blood, that would usually become urine. This backup makes the kidneys appear congested. The disease may take 10-20 years to develop and can be associated with diabetes, hepatitis, malaria, or systemic lupus erythematosus.

The diagnosis is made with laboratory studies of the urine and blood. Severe symptoms may include:

• Fatigue
• Nausea and vomiting
• Shortness of breath
• Disturbed vision
• High blood pressure
• Swelling, especially noted in the face, hands, feet, and ankles
• Blood and protein in the urine, resulting in a smoky or slightly red appearance.

Treatment of acute glomerulonephritis centers on the following goals: 

• Decrease the damage to the glomeruli
• Decrease the metabolic demands on the kidneys
• Improve kidney function.

Bed rest, diuretics (to increase output with urination), antibiotics, iron and vitamin supplements, and decreased sodium and protein intake may be ordered to help alleviate stress on the kidneys. 

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