What Are The Types Of Kidney Disease?

Glomerulonephritis

Glomerulonephritis is a condition that causes inflammation in the glomeruli, small structures made of blood vessels. These structures are responsible for the proper filtration of the blood and the removal of excess fluids. Patients with acute glomerulonephritis could experience coughing due to an accumulation of fluid in the lungs, and they may also notice they are urinating less than usual. Urinary output may appear rusty due to the presence of blood. Individuals with chronic glomerulonephritis typically urinate more frequently than usual during the overnight hours, and their urine may appear foamy or bubbly as a result of excess protein. Abdominal pain, swelling of the face and ankles, and frequent nosebleeds could develop as well.

To diagnose glomerulonephritis, doctors generally rely on blood and urine tests, ultrasounds, and CT scans. Some patients may need to have immunology testing, chest x-rays, or an intravenous pyelogram, and a kidney biopsy could be necessary to confirm the presence of this condition. If a patient's glomerulonephritis is caused by an autoimmune condition, corticosteroids or plasmapheresis may be used as treatment options. Individuals with chronic glomerulonephritis are often prescribed diuretics to reduce swelling, and dietary changes to reduce protein, salt, and potassium will be recommended. These patients need to carefully monitor their fluid intake too.

Read more about the various types of kidney disease now.