Nephritis

Nephritis is a condition where the kidneys are inflamed. There are various types of nephritis, the main ones being: Interstitial Nephritis, Pyelonephritis and Glomerulonephritis.
Interstitial Nephritis is when the space between the small tubes in the kidney becomes inflamed. There is acute interstitial nephritis when it is just temporary or chronic interstitial nephritis which is ongoing and can get worse with time. The main and most common causes of acute interstitial nephritis are due to certain medications or autoimmune diseases, such as, Kawaski disease as well as infections.
Pyelonephritis usually begins as a water infection (urinary tract infection). The infection begins in the urinary tract and as the bacteria enters your body, it will work its way to the bladder and travel to the kidneys. Women tend to suffer with this more than men as it is easier for bacteria to enter their bodies, causing the infection. People who suffer with kidney stones are bladder infections are also more prone to getting this
Glomerulonephritis is a form of nephritis that is mainly caused by infections and illnesses in your body, such as, strep throat, lupus or Wegener’s disease. It is a group of diseases that can harm and injure your kidneys.

SYMPTOMS OF NEPHRITIS

The symptoms depend on what form of nephritis you have and if it is acute or chronic but some of the symptoms people may experience are swelling, mainly in the face, legs and feet as well as having the constant need to urinate and when they do it can burn and is painful. Their urine may be cloudy or have blood in it, they may also experience vomiting and have a pain in the stomach and kidney area.

Treatments

Nephritis is the inflammation of the kidneys and the treatment all depends on what kind of nephritis you have. It could be acute, chronic, or have a rule in another illness such as lupus.

Having a strong immune system can help to fight nephritis before it has a chance to affect the body.

You will also have to monitor your blood pressure and have regular checks on your kidneys. Your doctor might give you medication to treat nephritis. But there is a chance that the medication you take can cause further kidney problems, so your doctor might prescribe something different.

Medication

Antibiotics are the usual medication of choice when treating nephritis but if the infection is more serious you might need intravenous antibiotic and a stay in hospital. IV antibiotics are more likely to work quicker than any medication in the pill form. Your doctor may also prescribe corticosteroids to help with the immflamation of the kidneys.

Dialysis

Dialysis may be required if the kidneys become impaired due to the infection. These are machines that act as artificial kidneys. Dialysis is only a temporary fix, unless your kidneys are too damaged in which case you might have to have dialysis permanently.

Rest and Hydration

If you have acute nephritis your body will need time and energy in order to heal itself. Bed rest will be recommended by your doctor in order to aid your recovery. It’s also recommended to prevent dehydration by increasing your intake of fluids and help your kidneys to filter waste products.

Healthy Diet

Eating a nutrient based diet can help to replenish what your body has lost during nephritis and gives back water, protein, salt, potassium, and phosphorus. Try and add foods that contain high levels of electrolytes and antioxidants. It’s recommended to avoid such foods like processed meat, dairy, alcohol, caffeine, too much protein, and other food that may be high in oxalic acid.

How to Prevent Nephritis

Wipe properly — women need to wipe front to back to keep bacteria from spreading.
Urinate often — not urinating when you need to can lead to bacteria forming in the urine that is in the bladder. Also remember to urinate after sex.
Loose fitting clothing — things like jeans, wet swimming costumes and nylon can cause moisture which can be trapped and then allow bacteria to grow.
Proper hygiene — keep your genital area dry and clean. Women shouldn’t use feminine hygiene products as they can irritate the urethra. They should also change their pads and tampons on a regular basis.

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