Glomerulonephritis: Symptoms and Treatments

The glomerulus is the basic filtering unit of the kidney. The glomerulus contains several tiny filters known as glomeruli. Glomerulonephritis occurs when the glomeruli become scarred, damaged, and inflamed and can no longer filter your blood effectively.¹  Glomerulonephritis may present itself suddenly or slowly over time.

• Acute glomerulonephritis: happens suddenly, often after a skin or throat infection
• Chronic glomerulonephritis: develops slowly over time, often without symptoms¹

• Strep throat
• Lupus
• Viral infections such as hepatitis B and C²

Although your kidneys may become damaged before any warning signs appear,³ it is still important to be aware of potential symptoms so you can take action to protect your kidney health as soon as possible. If you have any conditions that may cause glomerulonephritis, or a family history of any symptoms, it’s recommended that you get screened regularly.

• Swelling in your hands, face, feet, and stomach
• Frequent nighttime urination
• Blood in your urine
• Less frequent urination
• Bubbly or foamy urine
• Fatigue
• High blood pressure

• Urinalysis—checks for high protein (proteinuria), infection, and red and white blood cells³
• Blood test—determines how well your kidneys are filtering your blood; your doctor may check your blood for excess waste³
• Kidney ultrasound—takes images of your kidneys to check for any abnormalities³
• Kidney biopsy—small samples of your kidney are removed and examined³

• Eat a healthy diet. Eating a well-balanced diet with fruits, vegetables, and whole grains—and less protein, salt, and potassium—will help you feel your best.
• Control your blood pressure. Glomerulonephritis usually causes high blood pressure, which can lead to further kidney damage. Work with your doctor to monitor and control your blood pressure.
• Lower your cholesterol. High cholesterol is common among people with glomerulonephritis.² Taking steps to reduce your cholesterol, through diet and potentially medication, can help avoid other complications such as heart and vascular disease.
• Get vaccinated. People with glomerulonephritis are more vulnerable to infections. To protect your health, consider getting vaccinations for conditions including COVID-19, flu, and pneumonia.