What are the early symptoms of chronic nephritis?

Jul 22, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

Recently, I have been feeling unwell and suspect it might be chronic nephritis. I would like to know what the early symptoms of chronic nephritis are.

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Early chronic nephritis is a kidney disease characterized by a gradual decline in kidney function. The progression of the disease is slow, and symptoms are often not obvious in the initial stages. In the early stages, patients may experience only mild abnormalities in urine, such as the presence of protein (proteinuria) or red blood cells (hematuria), as well as increased urination at night. Some patients may feel mild back pain, fatigue, or experience edema, particularly around the eyelids and ankles. Patients with chronic nephritis may also notice increased foaming in their urine, which is usually caused by the presence of protein in the urine. Additionally, some patients may develop hematuria, in which blood appears in the urine, and this can be classified into two types: gross hematuria (visible to the naked eye) and microscopic hematuria (visible only under a microscope). Edema is also a common early symptom of chronic nephritis, mainly manifesting as swelling or fluid retention in areas such as the eyelids, face, ankles, and lower back. Patients may also experience symptoms such as lethargy, poor appetite, weight loss, back pain, and joint swelling. These symptoms may be related to factors such as chronic renal failure, hypoalbuminemia, and electrolyte imbalance. If you have any concerns or experience physical discomfort, please seek medical attention promptly.