CHRONIC NEPHRITIC SYNDROME

Here are some types of acute nephritis:

Interstitial nephritis. These are inflamed spaces between the kidney tubules that cause the kidneys to swell.

Pyelonephritis. This is inflammation of the kidney where the bacterial infection that causes this inflammation begins in the bladder and then goes up the ureters and into the kidneys.

Glomerulonephritis. This occurs when the glomeruli are inflamed and damaged, causing it to not filter the blood correctly.

Though symptoms depend on the type of acute nephritis you have, here are the most common symptoms of all three types of acute nephritis:

• pain or a burning sensation while urinating
• pain in the pelvis
• a frequent need to urinate
• blood or pus in the urine
• cloudy urine
• pain in the kidney area or abdomen
• fever
• swelling of the body, commonly in the face, legs, and feet
• high blood pressure
• vomiting

DIAGNOSIS

To determine if you could be at an increased risk for acute nephritis, your doctor will perform a physical exam and take a medical history.

Lab tests such as urinalysis, blood tests, imaging scan and renal biopsy may be conducted to determine the presence of an infection.

Urinalysis. Presence of bacteria, blood, and white blood cells (WBCs) in the urine can indicate an infection.

Blood test. When there is elevated levels of blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine it denotes that your kidneys are not functioning well.

Imaging scan. Renal ultrasound or a CT scan is an imaging scan that can reveal an inflammation or blockage of the kidneys or urinary tract.

Renal biopsy. The best method to diagnose acute nephritis because this includes testing an actual tissue sample from the kidney.

TREATMENT/MEDICATIONS

Medications. Your doctor will prescribe intravenous (IV) antibiotics if your infection is very serious and may prescribe corticosteroids if your kidneys are very inflamed.

Supplements. You may need to take supplements if your electrolytes are low and your doctor may prescribe IV fluids if your electrolyte levels are too high to encourage your kidneys to release the extra electrolytes.

Dialysis. You may have a need of dialysis as a short-term necessity if your kidney function is significantly impaired due to your infection but if your kidneys have experienced excessive damage, you may need dialysis permanently.

Home care. Your body needs time and energy to heal when you have acute nephritis so your doctor will likely to recommend you for a bed rest during your recovery.