About this topic
Nephrotic syndrome is a group of problems caused by damage to the kidneys. They are: ‚
- Too much protein in the urine
- Low level of protein in the blood
- High levels of fat and cholesterol in the blood
- Swelling
Normally, your kidneys have tiny filters in small groups of blood vessels. These filters let your body get rid of waste products. You are able to keep the protein and other cells your body needs. If your kidneys are damaged, these filters may not work well. They may start to let proteins leak into your urine. Then, not as much is in your blood and you become swollen. ‚
What are the causes?
This problem can happen in people of all ages. The reasons adults have this problem are often different than a child. Adults may have a problem with the kidneys themselves. Other times, it is caused by a disease like diabetes or lupus. Children may be born with this condition. ‚
What can make this more likely to happen?
- Most common in ages 2 to 6
- Males
- Kidney problems
- Diabetes
- Lupus
- Infections
What are the main signs?
- Swelling of the face, legs, feet, ankles, arms, or belly
- Being very tired
- Foamy urine
- Weight gain from extra fluid
- Poor appetite
- Poor growth and development in children
How does the doctor diagnose this health problem?
Your doctor will take your history and do an exam. Your doctor will check for swelling in your face, arms, legs, and belly. Your doctor will also check your blood pressure, blood, and urine. High blood pressure can be a sign of kidney problems. The doctor may order: ‚
- Lab tests
- 24-hour urine collection
- Test on a small sample of urine
- Kidney biopsy
How does the doctor treat this health problem?
It is important to treat the cause of nephrotic syndrome. Care may put off or stop kidney damage. The treatment will depend on what is causing this illness. ‚
What drugs may be needed?
The doctor may order drugs to: ‚
- Lower blood pressure
- Lower the immune system
- Lower fats in the blood
- Help with swelling
- Thin blood
- Give more vitamins
What problems could happen?
- High blood pressure
- Heart disease and congestive heart failure
- Serious problems with your kidneys like chronic kidney disease, kidney failure, or needing a transplant
- Infection
- Blood clots
What can be done to prevent this health problem?
Often times, nothing can be done to prevent nephrotic syndrome. In patients with diabetes, certain drugs may help slow kidney problems. Keeping diabetes under control may also help. ‚
Where can I learn more?
National Health Service ‚
http://www.nhs.uk/Conditions/nephrotic-syndrome/Pages/Introduction.aspx ‚
National Kidney and Urologic Diseases Information Clearinghouse ‚
http://kidney.niddk.nih.gov/KUDiseases/pubs/nephrotic/ ‚
http://kidney.niddk.nih.gov/KUDiseases/pubs/childkidneydiseases/nephrotic_syndrom/ ‚
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
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Copyright ‚ © 2015 Clinical Drug Information, LLC and Lexi-Comp, Inc. ‚