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What are the symptoms of Lupus Nephritis?

Lupus nephritis is a kidney-related disease caused by systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), also called lupus. It's an autoimmune disease in which the body's immune system attacks its own cells and organs. Lupus causes the immune system to make proteins called autoantibodies which affects parts of the kidneys that filter out waste leading to lupus nephritis. This causes swelling and irritation of the kidneys, called inflammation. If the disease reaches an advanced stage, it can lead to kidney failure. Hence it is crucial to recognise the symptoms as early as possible to seek immediate medical attention. Read on to learn about the symptoms of lupus nephritis in detail.

Symptoms of Lupus Nephritis

Lupus nephritis can cause many signs and symptoms and may be different for everyone. This includes:

• Blood in the urine (hematuria):

Glomerular disease can cause your glomeruli to leak blood into your urine. Your urine may look pink or light brown from blood, but most often you will not be able to see the blood cells except with a microscope.

• Protein in the urine (proteinuria) :

Glomerular disease can cause your glomeruli to leak protein into your urine. Your urine may be foamy because of the protein.

• Edema:

Having extra fluid that your kidneys cannot remove that causes swelling in body parts like your legs, ankles, or around your eyes.

• Weight gain:

Due to the fluid your body is not able to get rid of.

• High blood pressure

• Elevated creatinine levels in the blood

Complications Related to Lupus Nephritis

• Hypertension

• Kidney failure

• Increased risk of carcinoma, particularly B-cell lymphoma.

• Elevated risk of heart and blood vessel problems

Conclusion

Recognising symptoms early will help patients recover soon. Your healthcare practitioner will diagnose this disease and recommend medicines and treatment to ease the symptoms. When this disease progresses to the kidneys, it could lead to life-threatening situations.

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Source: niddk.nih.gov, mayoclinic.org

Disclaimer: This blog provides general information and discussions about health and related subjects. The information and other content provided in this blog, website or in any linked materials are not intended and should not be considered, or used as a substitute for, medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Kindly contact your Doctor before starting a new medicine or health regime.

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Published on February 20, 2024