Lupus Nephritis 101: Understanding the Impact on Kidney Health
Lupus nephritis is a kidney disorder that happens as a complication of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), which is an autoimmune disease. If you have lupus nephritis, your immune system will attack your kidneys, which can lead to inflammation and potential damage. This condition will affect your kidneys’ ability to filter waste products and excess fluids from your blood, leading to various symptoms and complications. Lupus nephritis ranges from mild to severe, and its impact on kidney function varies among individuals. Regular monitoring and appropriate medical management are crucial to prevent further kidney damage.
If you want to know more about lupus nephritis’ symptoms and treatment, visit us at Doral Health and Wellness Urology Center and consult with the best nephrologists and urologists in East New York.
Lupus nephritis can affect your kidneys, it can cause inflammation and damage. Here’s how it usually happens:
- Immune System Attack
In systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), which is an autoimmune disease, your immune system mistakenly attacks your healthy tissues, including your` kidneys.
- Inflammation
Your immune system’s attack will trigger inflammation in your kidneys. This inflammation can damage the small blood vessels within your kidneys and can affect their normal function.
- Impact on Filtration
Your kidneys are responsible in filtering waste products and excess fluids from your blood to form urine. In lupus nephritis, the inflammation will disrupt this filtration process, which can lead to problems in removing these wastes efficiently.
- Structural Damage
Over time, ongoing inflammation can cause structural damage to your kidneys. This damage may involve scarring and changes in your kidney tissues.
- Reduced Kidney Function
As the inflammation and damage progresses, your kidneys will lose their ability to function properly. This can result in complications such as high blood pressure, fluid retention, and electrolyte imbalances.
- Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)
In severe cases, untreated lupus nephritis can lead to chronic kidney disease, and in severe cases, it may progress to end-stage renal disease, which can eventually lead to dialysis or kidney transplantation.
Early detection and management are important in preventing irreversible kidney damage. Treatment often involves medications to suppress your immune system, control the inflammation, and manage your symptoms. Regular monitoring and follow-up checkup with your medical providers are important if you have lupus nephritis.
If you have symptoms of having kidney issues, talk to your medical provider so you can devise a proper treatment plan for your condition. At Doral Health and Wellness Urology Center, our team of urologist will work with you in managing your disease and your quality of life. We also offer services, such as renal and bladder ultrasound. To schedule an appointment, please visit us at 1797 Pitkin Avenue, Brooklyn, New York 11212 or call 1-347-384-5690. You can also visit our website at https://www.urologistbrooklyn.com/.