Glomerulonephritis

What is Glomerulonephritis?

Glomerulonephritis is a type of kidney disease caused by inflammation of the glomeruli. Glomeruli are internal kidney structures.

Glomerulonephritis may be a temporary and reversible condition, or it may be progressive.

What Causes Glomerulonephritis?

The exact cause of glomerulonephritis is unknown. Researchers believe that it may be caused by specific problems with the body's immune system.

Complications of Progressive Glomerulonephritis

Progressive glomerulonephritis may cause high blood pressure, destruction of the kidney glomeruli, chronic renal failure and end stage renal disease.

Disorders that are Associated with Glomerulonephritis

Specific disorders that are associated with glomerulonephritis include:

• Focal segmental glomerulosclerosis
• Goodpasture's syndrome
• IgA nephropathy
• IgM mesangial proliferative glomerulonephritis
• Lupus nephritis
• Membranoproliferative GN I
• Membranoproliferative GN II
• Post-streptococcal GN
• Rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis

Symptoms of Glomerulonephritis

There are many symptoms associated with glomerulonephritis. The most common symptoms of glomerulonephritis are:

• Blood in the urine
• Blood in vomit
• Foamy urine
• Unintentional weight loss
• Nausea, vomiting
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Frequent hiccups
• Generalized itching
• Decreased urine output
• Easy bruising or bleeding
• Decreased alertness
• Drowsiness
• Confusion, delirium
• Coma
• Muscle twitching
• Muscle cramps
• Seizures
• Yellow or brown skin
• Decreased sensation in the hands, feet, or other areas
• Excessive urination
• Nosebleed
• High blood pressure

Can Glomerulonephritis be Treated?

Glomerulonephritis can be treated. Treatments are aimed at controlling the symptoms. Treatment varies depending on the cause of glomerulonephritis, and the type and severity of symptoms.

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