Symptoms of chronic glomerulonephritis include proteinuria, hematuria, edema, and hypertension. Prompt medical attention is necessary for accurate diagnosis and a treatment plan. Treatment methods include medication, dietary adjustments, and lifestyle modifications; specific measures will be chosen based on the severity of the condition and individual differences.
1. Proteinuria is one of the typical symptoms of chronic glomerulonephritis, manifested as a large amount of foam in the urine. This is due to damage to the glomerular filtration membrane, leading to protein leakage. Patients need to have regular urinalysis, and if necessary, 24-hour urine protein quantification. Drug treatment may include angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs) or angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs), such as enalapril and losartan, to reduce urinary protein levels.
2. Hematuria manifests as red or tea-colored urine, with red blood cells visible under a microscope. This is due to capillary rupture and bleeding caused by glomerular inflammation. Patients need to undergo urine sediment examination, and if necessary, a kidney biopsy to determine the cause. Drug treatment may include glucocorticoids such as prednisone, or immunosuppressants such as cyclophosphamide, to control the inflammatory response.
3. Edema often appears in the eyelids, face, and lower extremities, due to decreased glomerular filtration function, leading to water and sodium retention. Patients need to restrict their salt intake, limiting daily salt intake to less than 3 grams. Drug treatment may include diuretics such as furosemide to promote water and sodium excretion. Simultaneously, blood pressure should be monitored, and antihypertensive drugs such as amlodipine and metoprolol may be used if necessary.
4. Hypertension is a common complication of chronic glomerulonephritis, caused by decreased glomerular filtration function, leading to sodium and water retention and activation of the renin-angiotensin system. Patients need to monitor their blood pressure regularly, and 24-hour ambulatory blood pressure monitoring may be necessary. Drug treatment may include calcium channel blockers such as nifedipine, or beta-blockers such as propranolol, to control blood pressure.
The symptoms of chronic glomerulonephritis should be taken seriously. Seek medical attention promptly for a clear diagnosis and develop an individualized treatment plan. Through medication, dietary adjustments, and lifestyle modifications, the progression of the disease can be controlled and kidney function can be protected.