If you have been wondering what the symptoms of nephrotic syndrome are, you are in the right place. This article will discuss some of the symptoms, causes, and treatments of this condition. We will also look at how to diagnose this condition. This condition can be devastating. It can cause lifelong kidney damage and even death.
Symptoms
If you are experiencing nephrotic syndrome symptoms, you must visit your doctor for further evaluation. This condition affects the kidneys and requires treatment with medication. Your doctor may also prescribe dietary changes. Treatment for nephrotic syndrome varies, depending on its cause. For instance, if you have MCD, your doctor may prescribe steroids or diuretics. These medications can help your kidneys remove excess fluid and reduce swelling. You may also take an ACE inhibitor, angiotensin receptor blockers, or other medications to control blood pressure and decrease the amount of protein in your urine. Alternatively, your doctor may recommend an immune suppressant, an anti-inflammatory drug, or a pneumococcal vaccine.
Testing for nephrotic syndrome may include a urine test, which involves taking samples over 24 hours. The samples are then sent to a lab for analysis. A urine albumin-to-creatinine test (UACR) test will measure how much albumin you have lost in 24 hours. Albumin is a protein in the body that is important for proper kidney function. A low albumin level in the blood may be a sign of nephrotic syndrome.
Causes
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, diabetes and high blood pressure are the leading causes of kidney failure in the United States. However, many other factors are associated with kidney disease. Some of these factors include genetics and rare diseases. Nevertheless, if diagnosed early, most cases of kidney failure can be prevented or treated successfully.
The best way to prevent kidney disease is to maintain normal blood pressure. This can be achieved by taking blood pressure medicine, such as angiotensin receptor blockers or ACE inhibitors. It’s also advisable to maintain blood pressure levels below 130 mm Hg. Another common cause is glomerulonephritis, an inflammation of the filters in the kidney.
Kidneys help the body excrete waste products and excess fluid. They also regulate the levels of critical nutrients in the blood. When kidneys are working correctly, they are like a well-oiled machine. Unfortunately, when they stop working, the body may suffer from kidney failure. Dialysis or a kidney transplant can help patients with chronic kidney disease.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of nephrotic syndrome is based on the presence of proteinuria and hypoproteinemia. Doctors look for protein in urine and blood to determine if the inflammation of the kidneys is present. This condition primarily affects children and young adults.
Diagnosis of nephrotic syndrome begins with a complete physical examination. The history provides valuable information to confirm the diagnosis. After the history is reviewed, a physical examination will be performed. One of this disorder’s most common clinical findings is edema, which is characterized by swelling in various areas of the body.
The presence of proteinuria and hypoalbuminemia often complicates the diagnosis of nephrotic syndrome. The onset of these symptoms varies with age. In children, the symptoms usually appear gradually. However, the onset may also be sudden, and the disease may progress quickly to cause organ failure.
