Kidney inflammation, or nephritis, can be caused by various factors such as immune system disorders, urinary tract infections, or kidney disease. Treatment depends on the cause and may include medication and managing underlying conditions like high blood pressure. Symptoms include pain, fever, blood in urine, and swelling.
Inflammation of the kidneys, known medically as nephritis, is a relatively common medical disorder that can have a variety of causes. Inflammation is the body’s way of protecting itself from foreign invaders by releasing chemicals and creating extra white blood cells to fight off these foreign substances. An immune system disorder, such as lupus, can cause inflammation of the kidneys without any foreign invaders actually being present in the body. Other potential causes of kidney inflammation can include urinary tract infections or kidney disease. Treatment depends on the cause of the inflammation, but usually involves the use of over-the-counter or prescription medications.
Glomerulonephritis is a common cause of kidney inflammation. This type of kidney disease develops when structures within the kidneys stop working properly. This can cause white blood cells to leak into the urine. Antibiotics are often used, along with pain medications if significant pain is present. In some cases, medications may be needed to help lower blood pressure, as developing high blood pressure is common with kidney disease.
Pyelonephritis, more commonly known as kidney infection, is a leading cause of kidney inflammation. A kidney infection occurs when harmful bacteria make their way to the kidneys from the bladder. Kidney stones can also lead to inflammation of the kidneys. Both conditions can be quite painful and should require a visit to the doctor.
The most common symptoms of kidney inflammation include pain in the lower back or in the side where the kidneys are located, sometimes accompanied by a fever. Some patients may notice blood in their urine or experience pain when urinating. If there is a lot of inflammation, there may be swelling or weight gain. Swelling caused by inflammation of the kidneys is usually most noticeable in the face and lower legs or feet.
Treatment options for kidney inflammation largely depend on the cause of the inflammation, although in some cases, the direct cause cannot be found. Over-the-counter pain medications are often recommended, although many doctors are willing to prescribe stronger medications as needed. In cases where infection is present, antibiotics are usually prescribed. Underlying medical conditions such as high blood pressure must be controlled to avoid permanent kidney damage. It is important that the patient always follow the directions given by the doctor and report any new symptoms that may develop.
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