Kidneys are the bean-shaped organs that are located on either side of the back near the bottom of the rib cage. They are composed of nephrons, which filter waste products from blood before passing them on to the rest of the excretory system. Every day they filter up to 200 quarts of fluids every day. Impaired organ function requires prompt treatment to limit the risk of permanent damage or complications. Nephritis, or kidney inflammation, can be quite serious and needs medical attention or life threatening complications could arise.
Symptom awareness can help older individuals recognize signs of this potentially serious condition and seek help sooner. Widespread swelling, dark or foamy urine, reduced urine output, high blood pressure, drowsiness, lethargy, headaches and visual disturbances can all point to nephritis. In more serious cases, nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain may also be present. About half of those who develop the acute condition have minor or no symptoms. Those with chronic nephritis may not have symptoms until it has significantly deteriorated.
Strep infections are a common culprit of this problem in children. Adults and the elderly may be more likely to suffer from it after a bout of pneumonia, hepatitis or certain viral infections, such as measles or mumps. Those who have autoimmune disorders such as lupus or who have any condition that makes their immune system weaker may be particularly susceptible. Lab tests to identify protein or bacteria in urine may be necessary for an accurate diagnosis. Blood tests and imaging tests may be used to identify the infection and the severity of the swelling.
Treatments and medications to manage it may vary based on its cause and severity. Bed rest may be advised, and patients may be placed on low sodium diets to help reduce swelling and water retention. Antibiotics are often prescribed to control any bacteria and infection while corticosteroids can be used to reduce inflammation. In severe cases, patients may require temporary renal dialysis to reduce potential kidney damage.
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