Nephrotic Syndrome: The Kidney Disorder Behind Persistent Swelling and Fatigue

What Is Nephrotic Syndrome?

Nephrotic syndrome is a kidney disorder where your body releases too much protein (proteinuria) in your urine. The kidneys contain approximately a million filtering units known as nephrons, with each nephron consisting of a filter called the glomerulus and a tubule. Nephrotic syndrome happens when the tiny filters in your kidneys (glomeruli) are not working properly.

When the glomeruli are damaged, they allow proteins, such as albumin, to pass into your urine. This damage makes these filters unable to keep proteins in your blood, so they leak into your urine instead. Damaged glomeruli can cause three or more grams of protein to leak into your urine over a 24-hour period. As a result, you may experience swelling (edema), particularly in your legs, ankles and around your eyes and increase the risk of other health problems.

Nephrotic syndrome can be caused by various factors, including certain diseases, medications, or genetic conditions. Your doctor will work to identify the underlying cause to provide the most effective treatment.

What is Nephrotic Range Proteinuria?

When doctors talk about “nephrotic range proteinuria”, they mean 3.5 grams or more of protein in your urine a day. This is a sign of nephrotic syndrome and needs to be managed. If too much protein leaks into your urine, it can cause swelling, high cholesterol and increased risk of infections. Regular check ups and following your treatment plan is key to managing these symptoms and staying healthy.

Nephrotic Syndrome Symptoms

Nephrotic syndrome can cause several noticeable symptoms:

Swelling (oedema): You may notice puffiness around your eyes, especially in the morning. Swelling can also occur in your legs, ankles, and feet. This happens because your body retains extra fluid due to low protein levels in your blood.

Foamy urine: Your pee may look frothy or bubbly. This is due to the high levels of protein (greater than 3.5 grams) of protein albumin in your pee (albuminuria) being lost through your urine.

Fatigue: You might feel more tired than usual. The loss of important proteins can affect your energy levels and make you feel weak.

Weight gain: You may notice sudden weight gain from fluid retention. This is linked to swelling and oedema.

Loss of appetite: You might not feel as hungry as usual. This can be due to the fluid build-up in your tummy area.

High fat and cholesterol levels in your blood (hyperlipidemia): Blood tests may show increased levels of cholesterol and other fats in your blood.

Low levels of albumin in your blood (hypoalbuminemia): Damaged kidneys cause albumin to leak into the urine, leading to a drop in blood albumin levels.

Feeling unwell or sick: Nephrotic syndrome disrupts the body’s balance of fluids and waste removal, contributing to general feelings of illness.

Abdominal pain (pain anywhere from your ribs to your pelvis): Fluid retention in the abdomen, common in nephrotic syndrome, can cause discomfort or pain in the abdominal area.

Loss of minerals and vitamins: There are minerals and vitamins essential to health and development (calcium and vitamin D). Nephrotic syndrome affects the kidneys’ ability to regulate nutrients, leading to deficiencies in calcium and vitamin D, which are crucial for bone health.

Increased risk of infections: You may be more prone to catching colds or other infections due to the loss of protective proteins.

If you notice these symptoms, especially swelling and foamy urine, it’s important to see your GP promptly. Your health deserves expert care. At Nuffield Kidney and Dialysis, we provide specialized treatment for nephrotic syndrome, helping you manage symptoms like swelling, fatigue, and more. Early diagnosis is key — book a consultation today and take control of your kidney health!

Nephrotic Syndrome Types

Nephrotic syndrome can be categorised into different types based on its underlying cause and specific characteristics. These distinctions help doctors tailor treatment approaches for each patient.

Congenital Nephrotic Syndrome

Presents in the first 3 months of life due to genetic mutations. It presents early and is resistant to standard treatment and often needs specialised intervention like kidney transplant in severe cases from early on.

Idiopathic Nephrotic Syndrome

The most common type of nephrotic syndrome with no known cause and is linked to immune system anomalies. Common in children, it responds to steroids but can relapse. Ongoing management and regular follow up is key.

Secondary Nephrotic Syndrome

Caused by underlying diseases or external factors that damage the kidneys. More common in adults, treatment is focused on the underlying cause and nephrotic symptoms, comprehensive and long term management is key to improving kidney health.

Idiopathic Nephrotic Syndrome vs Secondary Nephrotic Syndrome

Idiopathic nephrotic syndrome (seen in kids) has no known cause and responds to steroids. Secondary nephrotic syndrome (seen in kids and adults) has an underlying medical condition (diabetes or lupus) and treatment targets the underlying condition not the symptoms.

Minimal Change Disease (MCD)

The most common cause of nephrotic syndrome in children, kidney changes are only visible under electron microscopy. It responds well to steroids and goes into remission but relapses are common. Continuous monitoring and management of side effects of treatment is important.

Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis (FSGS)

Refers to the scarring of parts of the glomeruli and affects kidney function which can lead to chronic kidney disease. Since it is resistant to standard treatment, management of FSGS requires an aggressive approach including immunosuppressive drugs and lifestyle modification to slow down disease progression and control symptoms.

Minimal Change Disease (MCD) Vs Focal Sclerosis (FSGS)

MCD and FSGS are both causes of nephrotic syndrome but very different in presentation and outcome. MCD is the most common in kids and has normal looking glomeruli on light microscopy and responds well to steroids and often goes into complete remission. FSGS is more common in adults and has scarring in some parts of the glomeruli and is resistant to treatment and often leads to kidney damage.

Childhood Nephrotic Syndrome

A kidney condition that affects children, it’s a condition where there is a lot of protein loss in the urine and low protein in the blood. It often presents with severe swelling in different parts of the body especially around the eyes and in the limbs.

Nephrotic Syndrome Risk Factors

You might be at risk of nephrotic syndrome if:

  • You have diabetes, especially if it’s poorly controlled
  • You have high blood pressure
  • You’re overweight or obese
  • You have a family history of kidney disease
  • You’re over 60 years old
  • You have an autoimmune disorder like lupus
  • You have focal segmental glomerulosclerosis
  • You have an infection such as hepatitis B and C or malaria
  • You’re taking certain medications, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
  • You have a history of blood clots
  • You’ve had a recent infection
  • You have high blood cholesterol
  • Medical conditions

Your risk increases if you have more than one of these factors. If you’re worried, talk to your GP about your kidney health.

Remember, having risk factors doesn’t mean you’ll definitely get nephrotic syndrome. But it’s wise to be aware and take steps to protect your kidneys.

To lower your risk:

  • Keep your blood pressure and blood sugar under control
  • Eat a balanced diet low in salt and high in fruits and vegetables. Controlled amount of protein and fat.
  • Exercise regularly
  • Don’t smoke
  • Limit alcohol intake

Nephrotic Syndrome Causes

Damage to the small clusters of blood vessels (capillaries) : Your kidneys have small clusters of blood vessels that filter out waste and excess water from your bloodstream. Damaged capillaries can result to nephrotic syndrome.

Amyloidosis: This condition involves the buildup of abnormal proteins in the kidneys, which can damage the glomeruli and impair their filtering function, leading to nephrotic syndrome.

Preeclampsia: This pregnancy complication causes high blood pressure and kidney damage, which can disrupt kidney function and result in nephrotic syndrome.

Allo-antibodies (from enzyme replacement therapy): Allo-antibodies may attack the kidney’s filtering structures, leading to glomerular damage and nephrotic syndrome.

Persons with sickle cell disease, evolving to renal failure: Sickle cell disease can cause kidney damage over time, leading to poor filtration and eventually nephrotic syndrome as renal function deteriorates.

Glomerulonephritis or inflammation inside the kidney: Inflammation of the glomeruli reduces their ability to filter blood properly, causing protein leakage into urine and triggering nephrotic syndrome.

Certain infections can trigger nephrotic syndrome: Hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and HIV are known to cause kidney damage that leads to protein leakage.

Hereditary Nephropathy: Genetic mutations affecting the kidney’s structural proteins can lead to glomerular damage, impairing kidney function and causing nephrotic syndrome.

Diabetic Kidney Disease: High blood sugar levels damage the glomeruli over time, leading to impaired kidney filtration and nephrotic syndrome.

Minimal Change Disease: This causes subtle damage to the glomeruli, making them more permeable and allowing protein to leak into the urine, resulting in nephrotic syndrome.

Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis (FSGS): FSGS scars certain parts of the glomeruli, impairing their filtering ability and causing significant protein loss in the urine.

Membranous Nephropathy: It is where thickening of the glomerular membrane leads to impaired filtration and protein leakage into the urine, causing nephrotic syndrome.

Lupus: This can cause chronic inflammation of the kidneys (lupus nephritis), damaging the glomeruli and resulting in nephrotic syndrome.

Autoimmune diseases like Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE): This can attack your kidneys. This immune system malfunction may cause nephrotic syndrome as a complication.

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): Some medications might damage your kidneys and lead to nephrotic syndrome. NSAIDs and certain antibiotics can sometimes have this effect.

Cancer which includes leukaemia, multiple myeloma or lymphoma: Rarely, these can cause nephrotic syndrome. Certain blood cancers like lymphoma can interfere with kidney function and protein filtration.

Genetic factors: This plays a role in some cases. Inherited disorders affecting kidney structure or function can make you more susceptible to developing nephrotic syndrome.

Diabetic Nephropathy: A common secondary cause of nephrotic syndrome. It’s caused by damage to the filtering system of the kidney from long term diabetes. Managing your blood sugar is key to preventing or delaying this kidney complication.

Nephrotic Syndrome Risk Factors

Corticosteroids :
Corticosteroids are often the first-line treatment for nephrotic syndrome. These drugs help reduce inflammation in your kidneys. Your doctor may prescribe prednisone or prednisolone.

You’ll typically take these medicines daily for several weeks. If your symptoms improve, your doctor might gradually lower the dose.

ACE Inhibitors and ARBs :
Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors and angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARBs) are blood pressure medications that can help protect your kidneys. They work by reducing protein in your urine.

Common ACE inhibitors include enalapril and lisinopril. ARBs like losartan are sometimes used if you can’t tolerate ACE inhibitors.

Penicillin :
Penicillin is a type of antibiotic commonly used to fight bacterial infections. It works by interfering with the ability of bacteria to form cell walls, leading to their destruction.

In the context of nephrotic syndrome, penicillin may be prescribed to help prevent infections, especially during periods of relapse when the immune system may be more vulnerable. This is crucial since infections can worsen symptoms or potentially trigger complications.

Albumin Infusions :
Albumin is a protein made by the liver, and it plays several key roles in the body, including maintaining blood volume and pressure by keeping fluid within blood vessels. In nephrotic syndrome, the kidneys lose albumin into the urine due to damage in the glomeruli (the filtering units), resulting in low albumin levels in the blood. This leads to fluid leakage into tissues, causing swelling (edema).

When symptoms are severe, a child may require albumin infusions in a hospital setting. Albumin is infused into the bloodstream through an intravenous (IV) line, which is typically a thin plastic tube called a cannula. The cannula is inserted into a vein, usually in the arm, and the albumin is delivered slowly over several hours to ensure that it safely re-enters the bloodstream and restores normal levels. This process helps reduce edema and stabilize blood pressure, providing relief from the symptoms caused by low albumin levels.

Renal replacement therapy :
This treatment, including dialysis or a kidney transplant, replaces the function of damaged kidneys by either filtering waste and excess fluids from the blood or providing a healthy kidney to restore normal filtration.

Diuretics :
Diuretics, also called water pills, help your body get rid of extra fluid. This can reduce swelling in your legs and feet.

Loop diuretics like furosemide are often prescribed. Your doctor might also suggest limiting how much fluid you drink each day.

Statins :
Statins help lower high cholesterol levels, which can be a problem in nephrotic syndrome. Medicines like atorvastatin or simvastatin may be recommended.

These drugs can help reduce your risk of heart disease. Your doctor will monitor your cholesterol levels regularly.

Immunosuppressants :
If other treatments don’t work, your doctor might try immunosuppressive drugs. These medicines suppress your immune system to reduce kidney inflammation.

Drugs like cyclophosphamide or cyclosporine might be used. These are strong medicines, so your doctor will watch you closely for side effects.

Anticoagulation therapy :
You might need blood thinners if you’re at risk of blood clots. Nephrotic syndrome can increase this risk.

Anticoagulants like warfarin or heparin may be prescribed. Your doctor will check your blood regularly to make sure the dose is right.

Treating the underlying disease for the different causes of Nephrotic syndrome :

    • MCD Treatment: Corticosteroids like prednisone are the main treatment, which reduces inflammation and protein loss and most kids go into remission quickly. Supportive care is a low sodium diet and diuretics for swelling.
    • FSGS Treatment: FSGS treatment may be steroids or immunosuppressants like cyclosporine to control symptoms and slow disease progression. Supportive therapies like ACE inhibitors to reduce proteinuria and preserve kidney function.
    • Membranous Nephropathy Treatment: Usually starts with immunosuppressive therapy to control protein loss, then ACE inhibitors to reduce proteinuria and blood pressure. Monitoring and diet adjustments are key to kidney health.
    • Diabetic Nephropathy Treatment: Blood glucose control with insulin or oral meds and blood pressure control with ACE inhibitors. Lifestyle and kidney function monitoring.
    • Lupus Nephritis Treatment: Immunosuppressants to reduce kidney inflammation and corticosteroids for flares. Blood pressure and diet to protect kidney function.

Nephrotic Syndrome Treatment Procedure

Before the Procedure

Your doctor will review your medical history and perform a physical exam. You may need blood and urine tests to check kidney function and protein levels. A kidney biopsy might be necessary to determine the cause of nephrotic syndrome.
Your doctor will explain the treatment plan and potential risks. They may ask you to:

  • Stop certain medications
  • Fast for several hours before the procedure
  • Arrange for someone to drive you home

It’s important to discuss any concerns or questions you have with your healthcare team. They can provide reassurance and help you feel prepared for the treatment.

During the Procedure

Treatment typically involves a combination of medications and lifestyle changes. Your doctor may prescribe:

  • Diuretics to reduce swelling
  • ACE inhibitors or ARBs to lower blood pressure and protein in urine
  • Steroids to reduce inflammation

In some cases, you might need immunosuppressive drugs. Your doctor will monitor your response to treatment closely.

You’ll likely need to make dietary changes, such as:

  • Limiting salt intake
  • Reducing fluid consumption
  • Eating a balanced diet with enough protein

Your healthcare team will guide you through these changes and offer support.

After the Procedure

Follow-up care is crucial for managing nephrotic syndrome. You’ll have regular check-ups to monitor your kidney function and adjust treatment as needed.

Your doctor may recommend:

  • Continuing medications as prescribed
  • Sticking to your new diet plan
  • Regular blood and urine tests

It’s important to report any new symptoms or side effects to your healthcare team promptly. They can help you manage these issues and make any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan.

Remember, recovery time varies for each person. Be patient with yourself and follow your doctor’s advice for the best outcome.

Nephrotic Syndrome Diagnosis

Nephrologist Consultation

Your GP might refer you to a nephrologist, a kidney specialist. They can provide expert insight into your condition and recommend the best treatment plan for you.

Urine Tests

Your GP might refer you to a nephrologist, a kidney specialist. They can provide expert insight into your condition and recommeA urinalysis is a simple test that examines your urine to check your health. In one part of the test, you pee into a container, and a special stick (dipstick) is dipped into the urine. If a substance called albumin is present, which can indicate kidney issues, the stick changes colour. For example, if the dipstick changes to a green or blue colour, it might indicate the presence of protein, suggesting possible kidney issues.nd the best treatment plan for you.

Blood Tests

Blood tests can show low levels of albumin, a protein your body needs to function properly. Your doctor might also check for decreased levels of other blood proteins. These tests help assess your kidney function and look for underlying conditions.

Kidney Biopsy

In some cases, your doctor may recommend a kidney biopsy. This involves taking a small sample of kidney tissue for examination under a microscope. A biopsy can help identify the cause of your nephrotic syndrome.

Phospholipase A2 receptor (PLA2R) testing

The phospholipase A2 receptor (PLA2R) testing involves drawing a blood sample, which is then sent to a laboratory for analysis. Using techniques like enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), the lab checks for the presence and concentration of antibodies against PLA2R. A positive result indicates a potential link to membranous nephropathy, which may be contributing to nephrotic syndrome, guiding further diagnostic and treatment steps.

Imaging Tests

Your doctor may order imaging tests like ultrasounds or CT scans. These can help check the size and shape of your kidneys and rule out other potential causes of your symptoms.

Remember, early diagnosis can make all the difference. At Nuffield Kidney and Dialysis, we offer comprehensive testing, from urine and blood tests to advanced imaging and kidney biopsies, ensuring you get the answers and care you need.

Book a consultation today with our expert nephrologists to take control of your kidney health!

Nephrotic Syndrome Risks

Blood Clots:

Nephrotic syndrome makes your blood thicker because of fluid loss and increases the risk of clots in your veins which can be dangerous if they go to your lungs or brain.

Infections:

Losing important immune proteins in your urine makes your body unable to fight off germs and you’re more prone to infections.

High Blood Pressure (Hypertension):

The condition often leads to hypertension as your body retains sodium and fluid and puts pressure on your heart and blood vessels.

Swelling (Edema):

Common in legs, ankles and around the eyes, in severe cases it can also cause fluid buildup in the lungs and affect breathing.

Acute Kidney Injury:

Sudden loss of kidney function which can be temporary or progress to chronic and needs immediate medical attention.

Malnutrition and Anemia:

Ongoing protein loss can cause malnutrition and iron loss can cause anemia.

Nephrotic Syndrome Complications

Nephrotic syndrome can lead to serious health complications if left untreated.

Chronic Kidney Disease: Your kidneys can be damaged for years and develop into chronic kidney disease. This will gradually worsen kidney function over time.

End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) or End-Stage Kidney Disease (ESKD): Kidney failure is the 5th and final stage of chronic kidney disease. It’s irreversible and can be life threatening if not treated.

Ascites: You may have fluid in your abdomen called ascites. This can be uncomfortable and make it hard to breathe or eat normally.

High Cholesterol and High Triglycerides: Nephrotic syndrome makes the liver produce more lipids to replace lost protein and so cholesterol and triglycerides go up.

Hypothyroidism: Protein loss in nephrotic syndrome includes thyroid binding proteins which can lead to low thyroid hormone levels and hypothyroidism.

Poor Nutritional Status and Anemia: Excessive protein loss in urine from nephrotic syndrome can lead to poor nutritional status and anemia due to lack of proteins for blood production.

Membranous Nephropathy after Bone Marrow Transplantation: Membranous nephropathy can occur after bone marrow transplantation in association with graft vs host disease. Immune system dysfunction after bone marrow transplantation and graft vs host disease can cause kidney damage and lead to membranous nephropathy which is a common complication.

Heart Problems including Coronary Artery Disease: Heart problems like coronary artery disease can also occur. The excess fluid retention can strain your heart and may lead to heart failure if not managed.

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE): Affects the kidneys and can cause lupus nephritis, an autoimmune disease where the body attacks its own kidney tissue and can’t filter waste from the blood.

A study in the Journal of the American Society of Nephrology found that adults with nephrotic syndrome have a 2.8 times higher risk of heart attacks compared to the general population.

Don’t let nephrotic syndrome lead to serious complications. At Nuffield Kidney and Dialysis, we offer expert care to help prevent these complications and manage your condition. Take control of your health and schedule a consultation today!

Nephrotic Syndrome Treatment Risks

Blood Clots: Because you’re losing fluid in nephrotic syndrome, your blood can thicken and clots can form in your veins. These clots can be life threatening if they get to your lungs or brain.

Infections: You’re losing important immune proteins in your urine so your immune system is compromised and you’re more susceptible to infections and illness.

High Blood Pressure (Hypertension): Because you’re retaining sodium and fluid because of protein loss, hypertension can develop and put extra stress on your heart and blood vessels.

Swelling (Edema): Swelling in your legs, ankles and around your eyes can progress to fluid in your lungs and make breathing difficult.

Acute Kidney Injury (AKI): Your kidneys can suddenly lose function for a short or long time and require immediate medical attention.

Malnutrition: Ongoing protein loss can lead to malnutrition.

Anemia: Iron loss can lead to anemia.

When choosing a nephrologist, be sure to check online reviews and ask around, to ensure you’re seeking quality help.

Nuffield Kidney & Dialysis takes steps to minimise these risks:

  1. Regular blood tests to monitor your kidney function and medication effects
  2. Personalised treatment plans tailored to your specific needs
  3. Close follow-up appointments to catch any issues early
  4. Patient education on recognising and reporting side effects promptly
  5. Careful medication management to balance benefits and risks

Remember, your healthcare team is there to support you. Don’t hesitate to ask questions or voice concerns about your treatment.

Cost Of Treating Nephrotic Syndrome In Singapore

Treating nephrotic syndrome in Singapore can be costly. The exact price depends on various factors like the severity of your condition and the treatments needed.

Here are some estimated cost ranges for common treatments:

Corticosteroids (e.g. Prednisolone): SGD 50 – SGD 200 per month

Immunosuppressants: SGD 500 – SGD 2,000 per month

Diuretics: SGD 30 – SGD 100 per month

ACE inhibitors: SGD 20 – SGD 80 per month

Hospital stays: May be necessary for severe cases. A 3-5 day stay can cost SGD 3,000 – SGD 10,000.

Regular follow-up appointments with your nephrologist: Each visit might range from SGD 100 – SGD 300.

Lab tests to monitor your condition: Typically SGD 100 – SGD 500 per set.

Consulting a dietitian: SGD 80 – SGD 150 per session.

Remember, these are rough estimates. Your actual costs may vary. It’s best to discuss with your doctor and check with your insurance provider about coverage.

If you are concerned about the cost of Nephrotic syndrome treatment, get expert advice and explore affordable options at Nuffield Kidney and Dialysis. Book a consultation today to discuss your treatment plan and MediSave coverage.

Are There Subsidies For Nephrotic Syndrome Treatment In Singapore?

In Singapore, you can use various subsidies for nephrotic syndrome treatment:

MediSave: You can use funds from your MediSave account to cover part of the treatment costs. This scheme is designed to help save for future healthcare needs.

MediShield Life: This basic health insurance plan covers major hospital bills and some costly outpatient treatments, protecting against large medical expenses.

MOH Subsidies: The Ministry of Health provides subsidies for community dialysis services, applicable to both haemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis.

The amount of subsidy you can receive varies depending on your situation. For exact details on eligibility and subsidy amounts, it’s best to consult with your nephrologist or the Ministry of Health.

Why Choose Nuffield Kidney & Dialysis For Nephrotic Syndrome Treatment?

Experienced Leadership:

Led by Dr. Behram Khan, a Senior Consultant Nephrologist with over 25 years of experience, trained in USA and American Board certified in Nephrology and Internal Medicine.

Specialised Procedures:

Minimally invasive interventional nephrology procedures like angioplasty, stenting, dialysis access management and kidney biopsies for faster recovery and minimal discomfort.

Chronic Disease Management:

Programs for kidney disease, hypertension, diabetes and obesity, focusing on medication, lifestyle changes and dietary advice to manage symptoms and improve life.

Central Location:

Located in Wheelock Place, Singapore, our clinic is easy to get to in times of need.

Visit Our Kidney Clinic in Singapore

Our Location

Nuffield Kidney & Dialysis Centre,
Nuffield Specialists,
501 Orchard Rd, #05-15 Wheelock Place,
Singapore 238880.

Opening Hours

Monday – Friday : 9am – 6pm
Saturday : 9am – 1pm
Sunday : Closed

Nephrotic Syndrome Vs Nephritic Syndrome

Nephrotic syndrome and nephritic syndrome are both kidney problems but they show up differently and have different causes. Nephrotic syndrome causes significant protein loss in urine, which causes swelling especially in the legs and around the eyes and may also increase your cholesterol levels. It’s often linked to long term conditions like diabetes.

For Nephritic syndrome, you may see blood in your urine, suffer from high blood pressure and produce less urine than normal with only mild swelling. It’s most commonly caused by a condition called IgA nephropathy where a specific antibody builds up in the kidneys. Both conditions need different treatments, so seeing a doctor quickly if you notice these symptoms is important.

Nephrotic Syndrome Vs Glomerulonephritis

Symptoms: Swelling in your legs and feet, foamy urine and weight gain due to severe protein loss. Glomerulonephritis shows up as blood in your urine and high blood pressure.

Protein Loss: Nephrotic syndrome leaks a lot of protein into your urine, glomerulonephritis leaks less.

Causes: Nephrotic syndrome is related to other conditions like diabetes or side effects from medications. Glomerulonephritis is caused by infections or autoimmune diseases.

Kidney Function: Nephrotic syndrome kidney function is normal at first, glomerulonephritis kidney function decreases quickly.

Treatment Focus: Nephrotic syndrome treatment is focused on reducing swelling and protein loss, glomerulonephritis treatment is focused on the underlying cause and kidney inflammation.

Preventing Nephrotic Syndrome

Here are 7 detailed tips for Singaporeans to prevent nephrotic syndrome:

Get your jabs :

Book your pneumococcal and other forms of vaccine. This shot guards against bacterial infections that could harm your kidneys. It’s especially crucial if you have diabetes or other risk factors.

Watch your salt and mind your fats:

Cut back on salty foods and don’t add extra salt to meals. Aim for less than 5g per day. Too much sodium can raise blood pressure and stress your kidneys. Limit saturated fats from red meat, full-fat dairy, and coconut oil. Choose healthier fats like olive oil and avocados instead. This helps keep your cholesterol in check.

Keep blood sugar steady :

If you have diabetes, manage it well. Check your blood sugar regularly and take your medicine as prescribed. High blood sugar can damage kidney filters over time.

Stay hydrated :

Drink plenty of water, especially in Singapore’s hot climate. Aim for 8-10 glasses daily. Good hydration helps your kidneys flush out toxins.

Exercise regularly :

Get moving for at least 30 minutes a day, 5 days a week. Try brisk walking in your neighbourhood park or swimming at your local pool. Exercise helps control blood pressure and weight.

Balance your potassium :

Eat potassium-rich foods in moderation. Too much or too little can affect kidney function. Good sources include bananas, sweet potatoes, and spinach. Ask your doctor about the right amount for you.

By following these tips, you can help protect your kidneys and lower your risk of nephrotic syndrome. Remember to see your GP for regular check-ups, especially if you have existing health conditions.

Book your consultation today

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FAQs

Nephrotic syndrome can be serious, but it’s not usually life-threatening. With proper treatment, most people manage the condition well. However, complications can occur if it’s left untreated.

Yes, nephrotic syndrome can go into remission. Some cases resolve on their own, while others need treatment. The outlook varies depending on the underlying cause.

Nephrotic syndrome can occur at any age, but it’s most common in children aged 2-6. In adults, it’s more likely to develop after age 40.

If nephrotic syndrome leads to kidney failure, you will need dialysis or a transplant to survive. If you’re considering a transplant, a full health evaluation by a transplant team is necessary to assess your readiness. If approved, the team will assist you in finding a suitable kidney match.

The best treatment depends on the cause. It may include corticosteroids, immunosuppressants, or addressing underlying conditions. Your doctor will create a tailored plan for you.

Life expectancy varies greatly. With proper treatment, many people live normal lifespans. However, complications can impact life expectancy if not managed well.

Improvement times vary. Some people feel better within weeks, while others may take months. Your doctor can give you a more specific timeline.

A low-salt diet is often recommended. Your doctor might suggest limiting fluids and protein. Also, avoid processed foods and opt for fresh, whole foods. Avoid having a high-protein diet even though the syndrome is caused by the loss of protein in your urine as well.

Gentle exercises like walking, swimming, or yoga are good options. Always check with your doctor before starting any new exercise routine.

Most children with nephrotic syndrome respond well to treatment. Many outgrow the condition by adulthood, but some may have recurring episodes.

There’s a slightly increased risk for siblings, but it’s still low. Genetic factors play a role in some types of nephrotic syndrome.

Most children with nephrotic syndrome can participate in normal activities. However, consult your child’s doctor about any specific activities or restrictions.

Waiting times for kidney transplants vary widely. It can be months to years. Factors that affect the waiting time include blood type, tissue matching, and organ availability.

Yes, it’s possible for nephrotic syndrome to recur after a transplant. The risk depends on the original cause of your condition.

Medical References

Park, Se Jin, and Jae Il Shin. “Complications of Nephrotic Syndrome.” Korean Journal of Pediatrics, vol. 54, no. 8, Jan. 2011, p. 322, doi:10.3345/kjp.2011.54.8.322.

Wang, Chia-Shi, and Larry A. Greenbaum. “Nephrotic Syndrome.” Pediatric Clinics of North America, vol. 66, no. 1, Nov. 2018, pp. 73–85, doi:10.1016/j.pcl.2018.08.006.