Disease
Nephrotic Syndrome
Overview of Nephrotic Syndrome
Nephrotic Syndrome is a kidney disorder characterised by the body excreting too much protein in the urine due to damage in the filtering units of the kidneys (glomeruli). This leads to low protein levels in the blood, swelling (edema) and an increased risk of infections and blood clots. Though more common in children, it can affect adults as well. With timely treatment, many cases, especially in children, respond well to therapy.
Types of Nephrotic Syndrome
- Minimal Change Disease: Most common in children, often responds well to steroids.
- Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis (FSGS): More severe, may not respond easily to treatment.
- Membranous Nephropathy: Common in adults, can lead to long-term kidney damage.
- Congenital Nephrotic Syndrome: A rare form that appears in infants, often genetic.
- Secondary Nephrotic Syndrome: Caused by infections, medications, or other diseases like diabetes and lupus.
Symptoms of Nephrotic Syndrome
- Swelling in feet, ankles or around the eyes (edema)
- Foamy or frothy urine indicating protein loss
- Sudden weight gain due to fluid retention
- Fatigue and tiredness from low protein levels
- Loss of appetite and general malaise
- Muscle wasting over time due to protein loss
- Shortness of breath in severe fluid retention cases
Causes of Nephrotic Syndrome
- Damage to kidney filters (glomeruli)
- Immune system disorders like lupus
- Infections such as hepatitis B, C or HIV
- Certain medications, especially NSAIDs
- Genetic mutations (in congenital forms)
- Diabetes and other chronic conditions
Complications in Nephrotic Syndrome
- Increased risk of blood clots (due to loss of anti-clotting proteins)
- Chronic kidney disease or kidney failure
- High cholesterol and blood pressure
- Infections due to weakened immune system
- Malnutrition and growth delays in children
- Vitamin D deficiency and bone problems
Risk Factors of Nephrotic Syndrome
- Family history of kidney disease
- Autoimmune disorders
- Use of certain painkillers or antibiot
Diagnosis of Nephrotic Syndrome
- Urine Test: To detect high levels of protein (proteinuria)
- Blood Test: To check albumin levels and kidney function
- Kidney Biopsy: To determine the underlying cause
- Imaging (Ultrasound/CT): To visualize kidney structure
- Creatinine and BUN: To assess kidney performance
Treatments of Nephrotic Syndrome
- Corticosteroids: First-line treatment for many types
- Immunosuppressants: Used if steroids don’t work
- Diuretics: To control swelling and fluid overload
- ACE inhibitors/ARBs: To reduce protein loss in urine
- Statins: To manage cholesterol levels
- Low-sodium, low-protein diet: To support kidney function
- In severe cases: Dialysis or kidney transplant may be needed
Prognosis of Nephrotic Syndrome
- Many children achieve full remission with treatment
- Some adults may develop chronic kidney disease
- Prognosis depends on the underlying cause and response to treatment
- Early diagnosis and proper management significantly improve outcomes
Care at MyhealthMydoctor
- Expert nephrologists with personalized treatment plans
- Nutritional counseling for kidney-friendly diets
- Advanced diagnostics including renal biopsy and proteinuria evaluation
- Holistic patient education and emotional support
- International patient services with complete care coordination
Some Important Questions Patients Should Ask Their Doctor During a Consultation
- Is this condition permanent or can it be reversed?
- Will I or my child need lifelong medication?
- What dietary changes should we follow?
- How often should follow-up tests be done?
- Are there side effects to steroid treatment?
- Can this condition lead to kidney failure?
What Patients Expect from Doctors During Consultation
- Clear explanation of the condition and its severity
- Compassionate discussion about treatment choices
- Guidance on long-term care and prevention of relapse
- Support with nutritional and lifestyle planning
- Honest communication about prognosis and expectations
- Monitoring schedule and when to seek urgent help