Symptoms of Chronic Nephritis
Disease description:
My family member has been experiencing soreness in the lower back and fatigue for the past few days. Additionally, blood has been noticed in the urine during urination. After an examination, the doctor diagnosed chronic nephritis. I would like to know, what are the symptoms of chronic nephritis?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Yang Guang
Chronic nephritis is a disease characterized by a gradual decline in kidney function, primarily affecting the glomeruli, which are the tiny filtering units within the kidneys. Below are some common symptoms:
1. Proteinuria: In chronic nephritis, damage to the glomeruli impairs their filtering function, leading to increased excretion of protein in the urine, manifested as proteinuria. The severity of proteinuria varies and may sometimes be accompanied by foamy urine.
2. Hematuria: Glomerular injury may cause red blood cells to leak into the urine, resulting in hematuria. Hematuria can be microscopic (detected by increased red blood cells in urinary sediment under microscopic examination) or macroscopic, where the urine appears tea-colored, like washed meat water, or reddish-brown.
3. Edema: When glomerular injury impairs the kidney's ability to effectively remove excess fluid, edema may occur. It commonly appears on the face, eyelids, hands, feet, and legs, with more noticeable swelling of the eyelids upon waking in the morning.
4. Hypertension: The kidneys are important organs in regulating blood pressure. Chronic nephritis may activate the renin-angiotensin system, leading to hypertension. Long-standing hypertension can further damage the kidneys, creating a vicious cycle.
