Glomerulonephritis – Diagnosis and Treatment
Treatment
Clinicians diagnose glomerulonephritis using a mix of tools to check for kidney disease and understand its cause and severity.
A health provider reviews a person’s symptoms, such as blood in the urine (hematuria), swelling, or foamy urine, which might suggest protein is leaking into the urine (proteinuria).
Common diagnostic steps include:
- Urinalysis: Clinicians use a urine sample to check for the presence of red and white blood cells and proteins. High amounts may signal kidney inflammation or damage.
- Blood Tests: These tests measure kidney function by looking at creatinine and waste product levels. Blood tests also check for signs of autoimmune conditions like lupus or recent infections such as strep throat (from group A streptococcus), which may lead to forms like post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis.
- Imaging tests: Ultrasound, X-rays, or CT scans review the structure and size of the kidneys. These tests can uncover issues like swelling or chronic damage.
- Kidney biopsy: Clinicians remove a small sample of kidney tissue and examine it under a microscope to look at the blood vessels and glomeruli. This confirms the diagnosis and helps tell apart similar diseases, such as IgA nephropathy, Henoch-Schönlein purpura, or signs of rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis.
A table summarizes the most common tests:
| Test | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Urinalysis | Checks for blood, protein, and inflammation. |
| Blood tests | Measures kidney function and looks for antibodies. |
| Imaging tests | Examines kidney size and structure. |
| Kidney biopsy | Confirms diagnosis and assesses tissue damage. |
These evaluations help clinicians identify if someone has acute or chronic kidney disease, find the underlying cause (such as lupus or diabetes mellitus), and guide treatment.
Treatment
Treatments for Kidney Function Loss
When kidneys lose most of their ability to work, clinicians provide special care. If glomerulonephritis leads to kidney failure, the patient may need dialysis. Dialysis uses a machine to clean the blood, acting like an artificial kidney.
| Treatment Option | When It Is Used |
|---|---|
| Dialysis | Severe kidney failure |
| Kidney Transplant | End-stage, chronic kidney disease |
| Diuretics | Extra fluid build-up |
| Antibiotics | Infection-related cases |
| Blood Pressure Medicine | High blood pressure |
| Corticosteroids/Azathioprine | Autoimmune/inflammation |
In cases of severe and ongoing (chronic) kidney damage, a kidney transplant may become necessary. Clinicians may give diuretics to help remove extra fluid from the body. Blood pressure medicines help lower pressure on the kidneys.
They may use treatments such as corticosteroids, immunosuppressive agents, or antibiotics if an infection is present, like with post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis. Some people may stay in the hospital for appropriate treatment and close monitoring.
Day-to-Day Health Tips
Making smart choices each day can help manage high blood pressure, swelling, and fatigue. Reducing salt in meals is important because it may lessen fluid buildup, hypertension, and edema.
Eating less protein and potassium can ease strain on the kidneys and help prevent waste from building up in the blood. Exercise helps with weight control and boosts energy. Calcium supplements may be needed if phosphorus levels go up.
Taking prescribed medications as directed supports kidney function and can help control symptoms like anemia and anorexia. Quitting smoking and monitoring blood sugar, especially with diabetes, are also beneficial.
Finding Help and Building Connections
Ongoing kidney problems can affect a person’s feelings and mood. Support groups offer a place to share experiences, listen to others, and get advice in a friendly setting.
Some ways to find a group include:
- Asking a doctor for recommendations.
- Searching online or through local hospitals and community health centers for nearby options.
Support networks can help people feel less alone and provide helpful tips for daily living.
Getting Ready for Your Medical Visit
Steps You Can Take Before Your Appointment
Getting prepared can help you make the most of a visit. Bring any test results or lab papers you have, especially results that relate to kidney function.
It is helpful to use a checklist before your appointment:
| Checklist Item | Details to Include |
|---|---|
| Changes in health or symptoms | Note all new symptoms, even if mild or minor. |
| Current medications and supplements | List names, doses, and how often you take each one. |
| Medical and family history | Include any past illnesses and family kidney issues. |
Bring a family member or friend with you, if possible. They can help remember advice and ask questions.
When you talk with the provider, bring up important topics such as:
- How well have your kidneys worked since the last checkup.
- When you should return for future tests or visits.
- Questions about dialysis or other treatments, if you need them.
- Advice about healthy eating and fitness.
- What to do if you miss a medicine dose.
- When you need urgent care.
- Where you can find more information.
Write these questions down ahead of time to make sure you cover everything you want to discuss. This helps you get clear, useful answers during a sometimes stressful visit.
