Management of Glomerulonephritis, Nephrotic Syndrome

Acute glomerulonephritis requires prompt diagnosis, as it can rapidly progress to permanent kidney disease if left undiagnosed. Glomerulonephritis is the third most common cause of end-stage renal disease, following diabetes mellitus and hypertension, and is responsible for about 15% of cases of an end-stage renal disease.

The emergency physician must consider acute glomerulonephritis in the differential diagnosis for patients that present with hypertension, hematuria, proteinuria, peripheral edema, and/or acute pulmonary edema. Acute glomerulonephritis is defined as inflammation and subsequent damage of the glomeruli leading to hematuria, proteinuria, and azotemia; it may be caused by primary renal disease or systemic conditions.

In mild cases, your GP or dietitian will give you relevant advice about diet. You may be advised to reduce your intake of:

• foods that contain a high amount of salt
• foods or drinks that contain a high amount of potassium fluid
• This should help control your blood pressure and ensure the amount of fluid in your body is regulated.
• You should have a regular review to ensure your blood contains the right levels of potassium, sodium chloride and other salts.