Nephritis – Causes, Symptoms & Diagnosis.

What Is Nephritis?

Nephritis is a medical term for kidney inflammation. Your kidneys are two bean-shaped organs in your lower back. They filter waste and extra water from your blood. When the kidneys become inflamed, they cannot work as well. This condition is called nephritis. In the United States, nephritis is a common cause of kidney problems. It can affect people of all ages. However, it is more common in adults. The World Health Organization and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention both provide information about nephritis. Early care is important to protect your kidneys.

Causes of Nephritis

There are several kidney inflammation causes. Sometimes, nephritis happens after an infection. Other times, it is linked to your immune system. For example, your body may attack its own kidney cells by mistake. In addition, some medicines or toxins can damage the kidneys. Here are some common causes of nephritis:

  • Bacterial or viral infections, such as strep throat
  • Autoimmune diseases, like lupus
  • Use of certain medications, including painkillers
  • Exposure to toxins or heavy metals
  • Genetic conditions that run in families
  • Sometimes, doctors cannot find a clear cause. Yet, knowing the reason helps guide treatment. If you have a family history of kidney disease, you may be at higher risk.

    Symptoms of Nephritis

    Nephritis can cause many different signs. Some people may not notice symptoms right away. However, as the condition gets worse, symptoms often appear. Common signs of nephritis include:

  • Swelling in the face, hands, feet, or legs
  • Dark or foamy urine
  • Less urine than usual
  • High blood pressure
  • Feeling tired or weak
  • Pain in the lower back or side
  • Nausea or loss of appetite
  • For example, swelling happens because the kidneys cannot remove extra fluid. In some cases, you may see blood in your urine. If you notice these signs of nephritis, it is important to talk to a doctor. Early treatment can help prevent kidney damage.

    How Nephritis Is Diagnosed

    Doctors use several steps to find out if you have nephritis. First, they ask about your symptoms and medical history. Next, they may do a physical exam. After that, they order tests to check your kidneys. Here are some common ways how nephritis is diagnosed:

  • Urine tests to look for blood, protein, or signs of infection
  • Blood tests to check kidney function
  • Imaging tests, such as ultrasound, to see the kidneys
  • Kidney biopsy, where a small piece of kidney tissue is checked under a microscope
  • In many cases, these tests help doctors find the cause of kidney inflammation. Consult Dr.Venkatesh now for treatment.