Chronic nephritis

Chronic glomerulonephritis, short for chronic nephritis, refers to a group of glomerular diseases whose basic features are proteinuria, hematuria, hypertension and edema, with varied onset, slow progression, varying renal decline, a tendency to worsen and eventual chronic renal failure. Pathologic types and stages differ, so presentations vary widely. Chronic nephritis is a group of multifactorial chronic glomerular diseases, though most have unknown cause. Those with obvious hypertension, edema or short-term renal decline should rest in bed and limit salt to 2-3 g. Those losing much protein with acceptable renal function should supplement high-biological-value animal protein such as eggs and milk; those with renal decline (endogenous creatinine clearance about 30 ml/min) should limit protein to about 30 g, adding oral essential amino acids when needed.

Common Symptoms

Decreased urine osmolality; high blood pressure; markedly decreased filtration fraction; hematuria; livedo reticularis and gangrene; raised urine amylase; proteinuria

Causes

Chronic nephritis is a multifactorial chronic glomerular disease, but most causes are unknown and not clearly related to streptococcus; only 15%-20% are said to derive from acute GN, though subclinical acute GN may make the true rate higher. Most patients have no history of acute nephritis, so many scholars now see no definite link; it may be caused by bacterial, viral or protozoal infection via immune, inflammatory-mediator and non-immune mechanisms.

Treatment

Medication, symptomatic treatment, rehabilitation therapy

Prevention

The fundamental method is to improve resistance and reduce infection. 1. Avoid overwork and mental stress; keep regular habits, moderate activity, exercise, reasonable nutrition, personal and environmental hygiene. 2. Prevent bacterial or viral infection, especially upper respiratory infection, asymptomatic bacteriuria, influenza, pharyngitis and tracheobronchitis; treat foci promptly; after acute nephritis stabilizes for 3-6 months, surgically eradicate chronic foci if needed. 3. Eat nutritiously, avoid high-protein diet, choose varied fresh foods. Self-monitor: nocturia, anorexia, lumbar discomfort, and especially morning eyelid or facial edema and abnormal urination suggest kidney disease and require prompt hospital check.

Recommended Department

It is recommended to visit the nephrology department; before the visit you may first book an appointment and connect with experts through this platform.

Warm reminder: The above information is provided for health education reference only and cannot replace professional medical diagnosis. If you have related symptoms, please seek care at a regular hospital in time.