Home
Articles
Q&A

What are the four major complications of nephrotic syndrome?

Jul 03, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Guang
Introduction
In general, there is no established concept of "four major complications" of nephrotic syndrome. Possible complications of nephrotic syndrome include protein and lipid metabolic disorders, endocrine and metabolic disturbances, infections, thromboembolism, and acute kidney failure. If you experience any discomfort, please seek medical attention promptly and undergo symptomatic treatment under the guidance of a qualified physician. It is also important to rest adequately, maintain a balanced diet, and take medications as directed by your doctor.

Generally, there is no recognized concept of "four major complications" of nephrotic syndrome. Possible complications of nephrotic syndrome include protein and lipid metabolic disorders, endocrine and metabolic disturbances, infections, thromboembolism, and acute kidney injury. If any discomfort occurs, seek medical attention promptly and receive symptomatic treatment under the guidance of a qualified physician. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Protein and Lipid Metabolic Disorders

Patients with nephrotic syndrome often exhibit hypoalbuminemia and negative protein balance. Hyperlipidemia is also a common manifestation. Long-term effects may include malnutrition, decreased immune resistance, delayed growth and development, and endocrine disorders. Hyperlipidemia can worsen glomerulosclerosis and increase the risk of coronary artery disease and myocardial infarction.

2. Endocrine and Metabolic Disturbances

Impaired kidney function can affect the metabolism and regulation of various hormones in the body. For example, hypothyroidism and disturbances in calcium and phosphorus metabolism may occur. Calcium and phosphorus imbalances can lead to symptoms such as osteoporosis and bone pain.

3. Infections

Patients with nephrotic syndrome may experience loss of immunoglobulins due to massive proteinuria, which can impair antibody production and weaken immune function. Additionally, the use of corticosteroids and cytotoxic drugs during treatment can further reduce overall immunity. Common infection sites include the respiratory tract, skin, peritoneum, and urinary system. Severe infections may lead to sepsis.

4. Thromboembolism

Patients with nephrotic syndrome often have a hypercoagulable state due to hypoalbuminemia and elevated serum fibrinogen levels. Hyperlipidemia, hemoconcentration, platelet hyperactivity, and the use of diuretics and corticosteroid medications can further increase the risk of thromboembolic events. Renal vein thrombosis and deep vein thrombosis of the lower limbs are commonly observed clinically. Severe cases can lead to life-threatening complications such as pulmonary embolism.

5. Acute Kidney Injury

Patients with nephrotic syndrome often have hypovolemia and a hypercoagulable state. Combined with tubular obstruction caused by massive proteinuria and interstitial edema compressing the renal tubules, these factors can lead to acute kidney injury. The main clinical manifestations include oliguria or anuria, which do not respond to volume expansion and diuretic therapy. In severe cases, dialysis may be required.

Daily management for patients with nephrotic syndrome includes adequate rest, a balanced diet, medication adherence as prescribed, regular follow-up visits, prevention of infections and overexertion, and maintaining an optimistic mindset.

Related Articles

View All
What should I do if white pressure marks appear on my calf?
In general, the appearance of white pressure marks on the lower leg may be related to factors such as skin elasticity, localized circulatory impairment, varicose veins of the lower extremities, lymphedema, and nephrotic syndrome. Treatment may include general care and medication under a doctor's guidance. In daily life, it is recommended to maintain moderate exercise to promote blood circulation in the lower limbs.
avatar
Dr. Yang Ziqi
View Full Answer
Why does the lower leg turn white in patients with nephrotic syndrome, and what should be done?
In general, leg pallor caused by nephrotic syndrome may be related to reduced skin blood circulation, anemia, lower extremity venous thrombosis, malnutrition-related edema, and renal insufficiency. Under a doctor's guidance, general treatment, medication, and surgical treatment can be used. It is also important to maintain a balanced diet and consume nutrient-rich foods in daily life.
avatar
Dr. Yang Guang
View Full Answer
What causes a high urine specific gravity?
Increased urine specific gravity may be caused by prolonged lack of water intake, high-protein diet, urethritis, nephrotic syndrome, diabetes, and other factors. In daily life, it is important to maintain good hydration habits, follow a balanced diet, avoid long-term high-protein intake, and maintain good personal hygiene to reduce the occurrence of elevated urine specific gravity and related health issues.
avatar
Dr. Cao Zhiqiang
View Full Answer
How is high cholesterol formed?
In general, high cholesterol may be caused by an improper diet, aging, hypothyroidism, diabetes, nephrotic syndrome, and other factors. To prevent high cholesterol, it is important to maintain a balanced diet, reduce intake of high-fat and high-cholesterol foods, engage in appropriate physical activity to improve lipid metabolism. At the same time, it is essential to regularly monitor blood lipid levels and undergo routine medical check-ups.
avatar
Dr. Yang Ziqi
View Full Answer
What does it mean if apolipoprotein A is elevated, and what should I do?
In general, elevated apolipoprotein A levels may be caused by genetic factors, regular exercise, chronic hepatitis, primary biliary cholangitis, nephrotic syndrome, and other factors. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and then improve the condition under a doctor's guidance through general treatment, medication, and other methods. In daily life, maintain a balanced diet, reduce intake of high-sugar and high-fat foods, and consume more whole grains and vegetables.
avatar
Dr. Liu Wenmin
View Full Answer
Why does body edema occur along with thirst?
In general, body edema accompanied by thirst may be caused by insufficient water intake, high-salt diet, hypothyroidism, nephrotic syndrome, diabetes, and other conditions. It can usually be treated through hydration, dietary adjustments, and medication. In daily life, it is important to maintain regular water intake habits and control salt consumption.
avatar
Dr. Yang Ziqi
View Full Answer
What causes facial swelling due to kidney disease?
Under normal circumstances, facial swelling caused by kidney disease may be due to excessive water intake before sleep, positional factors, acute glomerulonephritis, nephrotic syndrome, chronic renal insufficiency, and other factors. It is recommended to seek timely medical attention, identify the underlying cause, and undergo symptomatic treatment under a doctor's guidance. One should also pay attention to monitoring urine output and weight changes, and record the degree and duration of edema.
avatar
Dr. Yang Guang
View Full Answer
What is nephrotic syndrome?
In general, nephrotic syndrome is a common clinical syndrome rather than an independent disease. It is recommended to seek timely medical attention, identify the underlying cause, and undergo symptomatic treatment under a doctor's guidance. Nephrotic syndrome is a kidney disorder caused by various factors, primarily characterized by massive proteinuria, hypoalbuminemia, hyperlipidemia, and edema.
avatar
Dr. Yang Guang
View Full Answer
彩牛养生

Your trusted source for health information and wellness guidance.

Quick Links

Resources

Connect

© 2024 HealthPortal. All rights reserved.