Glomerulonephritis is a condition that affects the kidneys, specifically the glomeruli, which are tiny structures responsible for filtering waste and excess fluids from your blood. When these filters become inflamed or damaged, it can hinder kidney function and eventually lead to chronic kidney disease (CKD). CKD is a serious and progressive condition where the kidneys gradually lose their ability to work effectively, potentially leading to kidney failure if untreated.
At Doral Health & Wellness Nephrology, we specialize in diagnosing and managing conditions like glomerulonephritis and chronic kidney disease. If you’re experiencing symptoms like fatigue, swelling, or changes in urination, it’s important to seek expert care right away. Schedule a consultation with our dedicated team today and take the first step toward better kidney health.
What Causes Glomerulonephritis?
Glomerulonephritis can have a variety of causes, and understanding these is crucial for effective management. Here are some common factors that can lead to the condition:
- Autoimmune Diseases – Conditions like lupus and IgA nephropathy can cause the immune system to attack the glomeruli, leading to inflammation.
- Infections – Certain bacterial or viral infections, such as strep throat, hepatitis, or HIV, can trigger glomerulonephritis.
- Genetic Conditions – Some types of glomerulonephritis run in families due to inherited gene mutations.
- Other Medical Conditions – Diseases such as diabetes or high blood pressure can damage the kidneys over time and contribute to glomerulonephritis.
Identifying the underlying cause is an important step in determining the best course of treatment.
Symptoms of Glomerulonephritis
Glomerulonephritis symptoms can vary depending on its severity and whether it develops suddenly (acute) or gradually (chronic). Common symptoms include:
- Blood in the Urine (Hematuria) – This may appear as pink, red, or cola-colored urine due to red blood cells leaking into the urine.
- Protein in the Urine (Proteinuria) – High levels of protein may make urine appear foamy.
- Swelling (Edema) – This often occurs in the face, hands, feet, or abdomen due to fluid retention.
- High Blood Pressure – Damaged kidneys may struggle to regulate blood pressure effectively.
- Fatigue – Reduced kidney function can lead to a buildup of waste products in the body, causing fatigue.
Chronic cases may develop slowly and only show symptoms after significant kidney damage has occurred, which is why early detection is important.
How Is Glomerulonephritis Linked to Chronic Kidney Disease?
Glomerulonephritis is one of the leading causes of chronic kidney disease. When the delicate filtering structures of the kidneys are consistently inflamed or damaged, they lose their ability to filter waste and maintain proper fluid balance. Over time, this loss of function can progress to CKD, which has five stages based on the level of kidney impairment.
CKD is a serious condition and can lead to complications such as anemia, bone disease, and heart problems if left untreated. Early diagnosis and targeted treatment of glomerulonephritis can help slow or even prevent the progression to CKD.
Treatment Options for Glomerulonephritis
The treatment for glomerulonephritis depends on its cause, severity, and whether it’s acute or chronic. Here are some common approaches:
- Medications
- Immune Suppressants – These medications, such as corticosteroids, can reduce inflammation caused by autoimmune responses.
- Blood Pressure Medications – ACE inhibitors or ARBs can help protect kidney function and reduce proteinuria.
- Plasma Exchange – This procedure involves removing harmful antibodies from the blood, which can be helpful in certain severe cases.
- Dietary Changes – Reducing sodium, potassium, and protein intake can help lessen the kidneys’ workload and prevent complications.
- Dialysis – For advanced cases leading to kidney failure, dialysis may be necessary to remove waste products and excess fluids from the blood.
- Kidney Transplant – When kidney function is severely impaired, a transplant may be the best solution for long-term health.
An experienced nephrologist can guide you toward the most effective treatment tailored to your individual needs.
Prioritize Your Kidney Health with Doral Health & Wellness Nephrology
Dealing with glomerulonephritis or chronic kidney disease can feel overwhelming, but expert care can make all the difference. At Doral Health & Wellness Nephrology, we’re committed to providing comprehensive support for your kidney health. Our skilled specialists use advanced diagnostic tools to identify the causes of kidney damage and design personalized treatment plans to help you achieve the best outcomes. Whether you need targeted medical management, dietary guidance, or specialized therapies, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Don’t wait to address your kidney concerns. Contact Doral Health & Wellness Nephrology today to schedule a consultation with a trusted nephrologist. Call us at 1-718-367-2555 or visit us at 1797 Pitkin Avenue, Brooklyn, New York 11212. You can also visit our website at https://doralhw.org. Together, we can work to protect your kidney function, improve your well-being, and help you live a healthier life. Take the first step by reaching out now!
