Nephritis

Nephritis or disease of the Kidney. Inflamation of one or both kidneys can be caused by many different conditions. This terrible disease can unfortunately appear in children and adults. The symptons for adults and children are different.

Chronic glomerulonephritis - Is the advanced stage of a group of kidney disorders, resulting in inflammation and slowly worsening destruction of internal kidney structures called glomeruli. Chronic glomerulonephritis occurs when there is slow, progressive destruction of the glomeruli of the kidney, with progressive loss of kidney function.

One should take note of symptoms like high blood pressure (hypertension) and chronic kidney failure. Blood in the urine (dark, rust-colored, or brown urine)
Foamy urine, Decreased alertness,Drowsiness, somnolence, lethargy,Confusion, delirium, Decreased sensation in the hands, feet, or other areas, Decreased urine output, Easy bruising or bleeding, Fatigue, Frequent hiccups, General ill feeling (malaise), Generalized itching, Headache, Increased skin pigmentation -- skin may appear yellow or brown, Muscle cramps, Muscle twitching, Nausea and vomiting
Need to urinate at night, Seizures,Unintentional weight loss, Blood in the vomit or stools, Excessive urination, High blood pressure, and Nosebleed.

Tests that should be conducted:-

Chest x-ray
Kidney or abdominal CT scan
Kidney or abdominal ultrasound
IVP
Urinalysis

Treatment :

Treatment varies depending on the cause of the disorder, and the type and severity of symptoms. The primary treatment goal is control of symptoms. High blood pressure may be difficult to control, and it is generally the most important aspect of treatment. Various medications may be used to attempt to control high blood pressure.

Corticosteroids, immunosuppressives, or other medications may be used to treat some of the causes of chronic glomerulonephritis. Dietary restrictions on salt, fluids, protein, and other substances may be recommended to help control of high blood pressure or kidney failure. Dialysis or kidney transplantation may be necessary to control symptoms of kidney failure and to sustain life.

If you feel you are facing any of the above problems call your health care provider if disorders associated with increased risk of chronic glomerulonephritis are present, or if symptoms indicating glomerulonephritis develop.

Prevention:

There is no specific prevention for most cases of chronic glomerulonephritis. Some cases may be prevented by avoiding or limiting exposure to organic solvents, mercury, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory analgesics.

Take a General Medical Check periodically or at least once a year to keep yourself fit from ailments.