Lupus nephritis, a kidney disease linked to systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), stems from the body's immune system attacking. It attacks the cells and organs of the body due to autoimmune dysfunction. As the condition progresses, kidney failure may occur, necessitating dialysis or transplantation for survival. The primary goals of the treatments are to reduce kidney inflammation and prevent immune cells from targeting or producing antibodies against the kidneys. Women are more susceptible to lupus in general. Additionally, people of Black, Hispanic/Latino, and Asian American descent face a higher risk. Early recognition of symptoms of lupus nephritis is crucial for better outcomes.
In this blog, we will discuss the primary signs of lupus nephritis so that timely medical attention can be availed of.
Symptoms of Lupus Nephritis
The symptoms of lupus nephritis can be diverse and may vary from person to person and even day to day. Following are some of the most common signs of lupus nephritis.
- One of the common symptoms of lupus nephritis is swelling in the legs, ankles, and feet, and sometimes in the face or hands.
- People suffering from lupus nephritis may experience unexplained weight gain.
- Increased and fluctuating blood pressure could also be a sign of lupus nephritis.
- Another common symptom of lupus nephritis is dark urine, and the presence of foamy, frothy urine. Additionally, individuals may experience an increased need to urinate during the night.
- Urinary tract infections are common in people with lupus and typically cause a burning sensation during urination, necessitating antibiotic treatment.
- Furthermore, certain medications used to manage lupus can also impact the kidneys, leading to swelling and similar signs of lupus nephritis. Fortunately, these drug-related issues usually subside once the medications are discontinued.
Prompt medical attention is essential for anyone with lupus experiencing signs of lupus nephritis, particularly persistent or worsening swelling, blood in urine, or changes in urination patterns. Various common tests are done to follow up on these symptoms of lupus nephritis. A urine test examines blood and protein samples, indicating kidney damage if present. A blood test measures creatinine levels to assess kidney function and estimate the glomerular filtration rate (GFR), which may worsen as kidney disease progresses. For further evaluation, a kidney biopsy is often recommended.
In conclusion, there is a wide array of symptoms of lupus nephritis. Swelling in the legs, ankles, and face, unexplained weight gain, fluctuating blood pressure, and changes in urine characteristics are common signs. Prompt medical attention, often supported by health insurance, is crucial to address the persistent or worsening of any symptom of lupus nephritis. Various diagnostic tests, such as urine and blood tests, as well as kidney biopsies, aid in confirming the lupus diagnosis and assessing the extent of kidney damage. With proper monitoring and treatment, individuals with lupus nephritis can better manage their condition and improve their overall quality of life.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your general physician or another certified medical professional for any questions regarding a medical condition. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.