Glomerulonephritis
What is Glomerulonephritis?
Glomerulonephritis is a condition that affects the kidneys. The kidneys are important organs in our bodies that help filter waste and extra fluid from our blood. When someone has glomerulonephritis, it means that the tiny filters in the kidneys, called glomeruli, become inflamed and damaged. This can cause problems with how the kidneys work and can lead to symptoms like blood in the urine, swelling in the legs or face, and high blood pressure.
Diagnosing Glomerulonephritis
If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of glomerulonephritis, it is important to see a doctor. The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history and may perform tests to diagnose the condition. These tests can include blood tests, urine tests, and sometimes a kidney biopsy. A kidney biopsy is a procedure where a small piece of kidney tissue is removed and examined under a microscope to look for signs of glomerulonephritis.
Treating Glomerulonephritis
Treatment for glomerulonephritis depends on the cause and severity of the condition. In some cases, glomerulonephritis may go away on its own without treatment. However, in other cases, treatment may be necessary to help manage symptoms and prevent further kidney damage. Treatment options can include medications to reduce inflammation and control blood pressure, changes in diet to reduce salt and protein intake, and sometimes dialysis or kidney transplant if the kidneys are severely damaged.
Preventing Glomerulonephritis
While it may not always be possible to prevent glomerulonephritis, there are some steps you can take to reduce your risk. It is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle by eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and avoiding smoking. It is also important to stay hydrated and to avoid infections, as some infections can increase the risk of developing glomerulonephritis. If you have any underlying health conditions, such as diabetes or high blood pressure, it is important to manage them properly to reduce the risk of kidney damage.
What is Glomerulonephritis?
Glomerulonephritis is a condition that affects the kidneys. The kidneys are important organs in our bodies that help filter waste and extra fluid from our blood. When someone has glomerulonephritis, it means that the tiny filters in the kidneys, called glomeruli, become inflamed and damaged. This can cause problems with how the kidneys work and can lead to symptoms like blood in the urine, swelling in the legs or face, and high blood pressure.
Diagnosing Glomerulonephritis
If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of glomerulonephritis, it is important to see a doctor. The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history and may perform tests to diagnose the condition. These tests can include blood tests, urine tests, and sometimes a kidney biopsy. A kidney biopsy is a procedure where a small piece of kidney tissue is removed and examined under a microscope to look for signs of glomerulonephritis.
Treating Glomerulonephritis
Treatment for glomerulonephritis depends on the cause and severity of the condition. In some cases, glomerulonephritis may go away on its own without treatment. However, in other cases, treatment may be necessary to help manage symptoms and prevent further kidney damage. Treatment options can include medications to reduce inflammation and control blood pressure, changes in diet to reduce salt and protein intake, and sometimes dialysis or kidney transplant if the kidneys are severely damaged.
Preventing Glomerulonephritis
While it may not always be possible to prevent glomerulonephritis, there are some steps you can take to reduce your risk. It is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle by eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and avoiding smoking. It is also important to stay hydrated and to avoid infections, as some infections can increase the risk of developing glomerulonephritis. If you have any underlying health conditions, such as diabetes or high blood pressure, it is important to manage them properly to reduce the risk of kidney damage.
Symptom list:
Glomerulonephritis
Financial support
Not all of us are able to afford the treatment we need. Search your insurance coverage, or check out what charities may be able to offer you for your condition.
p.s. Just because you have insurance, that doesn't mean that charities or other organizations are not able to support you too.
Emotional support
Whether it's a free counseling session or to find someone with a similar diagnosis, these Germie approved charities might be able to help. Click to explore their offerings!
