Glomerulonephritis

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Kidney anatomy

Treatment varies depending on the cause of the disorder, and the type and severity of symptoms. The primary treatment goal is control of symptoms. High blood pressure may be difficult to control, and it is generally the most important aspect of treatment.

Various antihypertensive medications may be used to attempt to control high blood pressure. Corticosteroids, immunosuppressives, or other medications may be used to treat some of the causes of chronic glomerulonephritis.

Dietary restrictions on salt, fluids, protein, and other substances may be recommended to aid control of hypertension or kidney failure.

Dialysis or kidney transplantation may be necessary to control symptoms of renal failure and to sustain life.

The stress of illness can often be helped by joining support groups where members share common experiences and problems. See kidney disease - support group.

The outcome varies depending on the cause. Some types of glomerulonephritis may have spontaneous remission.

If nephrotic syndrome is present and can be controlled, other symptoms may be controlled. If nephrotic syndrome is present and cannot be controlled, end-stage renal disease may result.

The disorder gets worse at widely variable rates.

• Nephrotic syndrome
• Acute nephritic syndrome
• Chronic renal failure
• End-stage renal disease
• Hypertension
• Malignant hypertension
• Fluid overload -- congestive heart failure, pulmonary edema
• Chronic or recurrent urinary tract infection
• Increased susceptibility to other infections

Call your health care provider if disorders associated with increased risk of glomerulonephritis are present, or if symptoms indicating glomerulonephritis develop.

Review Date: 09/13/2005
Reviewed By: Robert Mushnick, M.D., Clinical Assistant Professor, SUNY Downstate Health Center, Brooklyn, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.