Nephrotic syndrome is a serious kidney condition seen in the human body. When a kidney suffers from a nephrotic syndrome, it passes excessive protein in the urine. Nephrotic syndrome is relatively rare in the human body but can be caused by kidney diseases. Regardless of the age group, this syndrome can be seen in people of all ages, from children to adults. If detected, the nephrotic syndrome must be treated immediately to avoid severe kidney complications.
Here is all you need to know about the types of nephrotic syndrome, its causes, treatments, precautions to consider, and more.
Causes of Nephrotic Syndrome
The nephrotic syndrome inside the human kidney can be formed due to various reasons. These include diseases that affect the kidney specifically or other major systemic issues in the body that can ultimately result in the formation of nephrotic diseases.
Here are some major causes of the nephrotic syndrome:
- Certain diseases that affect the kidney specifically are a major cause of nephrotic syndrome. These include focal segmental glomerulosclerosis, membranous nephropathy, and minimal charge diseases.
- Uncontrolled diabetes might also result in the development of nephrotic syndrome.
- Unknown allergic reactions, if not taken care of, can cause nephrotic syndrome.
- Various infections, such as HIV/AIDS, Hepatitis B, and C, can also cause nephrotic syndrome to occur.
- If a person has a genetic kidney disorder, it may also result in nephrotic syndrome.
These are some of the primary causes of nephrotic syndrome. However, there can be various other reasons that can cause this syndrome to occur.
Symptoms of Nephrotic Syndrome
Nephrotic syndrome is likely to occur in people of all age groups, from children to adults. A human, when affected by nephrotic syndrome, shows various common symptoms. These include:
- In children, swelling around the eyes is the most common symptom of nephrotic syndrome.
- Swelling in lower legs, feet, hands, face, and other body parts.
- Fatigue.
- The release of foamy urine is also a primary sign of the nephrotic syndrome.
- Regular occurrence of muscle cramps and loss of appetite are some initial signs of nephrotic syndrome.
- Diarrhea or nausea, if untreated, can be initial symptoms of nephrotic syndrome.
Diagnostic Tests for Nephrotic Syndrome
It must be known that the nephrotic syndrome in the human body is a chronic condition that can not be cured but can be managed with medical treatments. However, there are several ways in which doctors diagnose this syndrome and provide necessary nephrotic syndrome treatment. These include:
- Urinalysis Tests: Nephrotic syndrome is primarily diagnosed by a urinalysis or urine test in which the contents of your urine are thoroughly examined. To check for the syndrome, lab technicians test the albumin level in your sample.
- Blood Tests: Another way to diagnose nephrotic syndrome is through blood tests. The amount of albumin is once again measured in your blood. A low level of albumin indicates a positive sign for the nephrotic syndrome in the body.
- Kidney Biopsy: Kidney biopsy is another way of diagnosing nephrotic syndrome, where a small tissue of your kidney is examined. The tissue sample is collected with the help of a needle to proceed with the examination process.
The treatments for nephrotic syndrome help reduce blood pressure, high cholesterol levels, swelling, and the risk of infection. Through all the medication and diet recommended by doctors, the nephrotic syndrome is still not completely curable, but its symptoms are only prevented and controlled.
Precautions to Take During a Nephrotic Syndrome
When affected by a nephrotic syndrome, you must consider taking certain necessary precautions that can help reduce its effects:
- Change your diet accordingly and choose lean protein sources. Lean protein sources include plant-based proteins that are helpful for the kidney in various ways.
- Ensure to add low or no salt to your diet. This prevents swelling of your different body parts.
- Reduce liquid consumption from your diet as the doctor advises for managing fluid retention.
- Control your cholesterol levels in your diet.
Final Thoughts
To sum up, you must consult a doctor if you see any symptoms of nephrotic syndrome in your body. While the syndrome is incurable, taking the necessary precautions against it at an early stage can help reduce complications and lessen its effects. Moreover, if you have a genetic kidney disease that affects various members of your family, there are chances of you getting the syndrome as well. In such cases, it is important to remain more aware and take a controlled diet to prevent the occurrence of nephrotic syndrome in the first place.
