Glomerulonephritis: Care Instructions
Overview
Glomerulonephritis (say "gluh-mair-yuh-loh-nih-FRY-tus") is inflammation of the many tiny filters in your kidneys (glomeruli). A glomerulus is a cluster of blood vessels that filters fluid and waste from your body as urine.
Depending on the cause of the inflammation, you may not have any symptoms. Or you may have foamy urine, high blood pressure, or swelling in your face, feet, or hands.
Glomerulonephritis can be caused by an infection or some medicines. It can be caused by diseases like diabetes or lupus. Sometimes the cause is not known.
This illness may get better with treatment. But it often leads to long-term (chronic) kidney disease.
Treatment may include:
- Corticosteroid medicines. These reduce inflammation.
- Immunosuppressive medicines. These reduce inflammation.
- One or more medicines to lower your blood pressure.
- Dialysis, in some cases. This is a treatment that does the work for your kidneys to filter waste from your blood.
Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor or nurse advice line (811 in most provinces and territories) if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.
How can you care for yourself at home?
- Take your medicines exactly as prescribed. Call your doctor or nurse advice line if you have any problems with your medicine. You will get more details on the specific medicines your doctor prescribes.
- A dietitian can help you make an eating plan with the right amounts of salt (sodium), potassium, and protein. You may also need to limit how much fluid you drink each day.
- Do not take anti-inflammatory medicines such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) and naproxen (Aleve). They can make kidney problems worse. It is okay to take acetaminophen (Tylenol).
- Seek support from family, friends, and a counsellor if you need it. Long-term illnesses can be difficult and stressful.
When should you call for help?
Call 911 anytime you think you may need emergency care. For example, call if:
- You passed out (lost consciousness).
Call your doctor or nurse advice line now or seek immediate medical care if:
- You have new or worse nausea and vomiting.
- You have much less urine than normal, or you have no urine.
- You are feeling confused or cannot think clearly.
- You have new or more blood in your urine.
- You have new swelling.
- You are dizzy or light-headed, or you feel like you may faint.
Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor or nurse advice line if:
- You do not get better as expected.
Current as of: October 11, 2023
Author: Healthwise Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
