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Glomerulonephritis
Urgent
Glomerulonephritis is inflammation or injury involving the glomeruli, the microscopic filtering structures of the kidneys. Damage can interfere with the kidneys’ ability to remove waste and regulate fluid and electrolytes. Depending on the cause and severity, it may produce blood or protein in the urine, swelling, high blood pressure, reduced urine output, or impaired kidney function. Glomerulonephritis may occur suddenly or develop gradually and can result from infections, immune-system disorders, medications, or other medical conditions.
Body System
Kidneys & Urinary Tract
When to Seek Medical Attention
Glomerulonephritis requires medical assessment because kidney inflammation can impair kidney function. Seek prompt care for blood in the urine, significant swelling, reduced urination, high blood pressure with concerning symptoms, severe weakness, or rapidly worsening illness. Emergency assessment is needed for severe breathing difficulty, confusion, markedly reduced urination, or other signs of serious kidney complications.
Symptoms
3
Causes
2
Treatments
5
Diet
4
Overview
Glomerulonephritis is inflammation or injury involving the glomeruli, the microscopic filtering structures of the kidneys. Damage can interfere with the kidneys’ ability to remove waste and regulate fluid and electrolytes. Depending on the cause and severity, it may produce blood or protein in the urine, swelling, high blood pressure, reduced urine output, or impaired kidney function. Glomerulonephritis may occur suddenly or develop gradually and can result from infections, immune-system disorders, medications, or other medical conditions.
Symptoms 3
Cloudy Urine
Upper Abdominal Pain
Urinary Retention
Causes 2
Glomerulonephritis can result from immune-system activity directed against the kidney or from immune complexes deposited in the glomeruli. It may develop after certain infections, including some bacterial or viral infections, or as part of autoimmune diseases such as lupus or vasculitis. Other causes include inherited kidney disorders, medications, and diseases affecting small blood vessels. The precise mechanism differs between types, and determining the cause is important because treatment depends on the underlying process.
Autoimmune Disorder
Infection
Risk Factors
Risk factors depend on the specific form of glomerulonephritis and may include recent infections, autoimmune diseases, systemic inflammatory disorders, certain inherited conditions, and diseases affecting blood vessels. A family history of kidney disease can be relevant for some forms. Certain medications and chronic medical conditions may also contribute. Because different forms have different risk profiles, clinical history and appropriate testing are important when kidney inflammation is suspected.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is based on a patient's medical history,
symptoms, physical examination and, when necessary,
laboratory or imaging investigations.
Evaluation begins with a medical history, physical examination, urine testing, blood tests, and assessment of kidney function. Urinalysis may show blood or protein, while blood tests can demonstrate impaired filtration or other abnormalities. Complement levels and tests for autoimmune or infectious causes may help identify the underlying process. Kidney ultrasound may assess kidney structure, while a kidney biopsy may be required in selected cases to determine the exact type and severity of glomerular injury.
Prevention
Key Prevention Tips
Not all forms of glomerulonephritis can be prevented because some are related to autoimmune or inherited conditions
Prompt treatment of certain infections and appropriate management of autoimmune, inflammatory, and systemic diseases may reduce kidney complications in susceptible people
Avoiding unnecessary medicines that may injure the kidneys and maintaining appropriate blood pressure and overall cardiovascular health can also support kidney function
People with known risk factors may benefit from periodic medical monitoring
Prevention Guidance
Not all forms of glomerulonephritis can be prevented because some are related to autoimmune or inherited conditions. Prompt treatment of certain infections and appropriate management of autoimmune, inflammatory, and systemic diseases may reduce kidney complications in susceptible people. Avoiding unnecessary medicines that may injure the kidneys and maintaining appropriate blood pressure and overall cardiovascular health can also support kidney function. People with known risk factors may benefit from periodic medical monitoring.
Reminder: Prevention recommendations should be tailored to your personal health status and risk factors.
Treatment & Management 5
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Medical Note: The treatment information provided is intended for educational purposes only.
Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting,
stopping, or changing any treatment.
Diet & Nutrition 4
Recommended Foods
Low Sodium Diet
May help control swelling and blood pressure.
Fresh Fruits
Provide vitamins and antioxidants.
Vegetables
Support kidney health.
Controlled Protein Intake
Follow physician guidance.
Foods to Avoid
Excess Salt
May worsen swelling and hypertension.
Highly Processed Foods
Often contain excess sodium.
Medical Nutrition Note: Diet recommendations are intended for general educational purposes and should be tailored to individual health needs by a qualified healthcare professional.
Frequently Asked Questions 5
It is inflammation of the kidney filtering units.
Autoimmune diseases and infections are common causes.
Blood in urine, swelling, and high blood pressure may occur.
Urine tests, blood tests, and kidney biopsy may be used.
Treatment depends on the underlying cause and severity.
Helpful Tip: These answers provide general medical information.
Consult your healthcare provider for advice tailored to your condition.