10 Key Glomerulonephritis Symptoms You Should Never Ignore

Glomerulonephritis is a serious kidney condition characterized by inflammation of the glomeruli, the tiny filtering units within your kidneys. This inflammation can impair your kidneys’ ability to remove waste products and excess fluids from your bloodstream, potentially leading to serious complications if left untreated. Understanding the symptoms of glomerulonephritis is crucial for early detection and management.

The condition can develop suddenly (acute glomerulonephritis) or gradually over time (chronic glomerulonephritis). While some people may experience obvious symptoms, others might have no noticeable signs until significant kidney damage has occurred. This makes awareness of potential warning signs essential for protecting your kidney health.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the most common symptoms of glomerulonephritis, helping you recognize when it’s time to consult with a healthcare professional about your kidney health.

1. Blood in Urine (Hematuria)

One of the most characteristic symptoms of glomerulonephritis is the presence of blood in your urine, medically known as hematuria. This occurs when the damaged glomeruli allow red blood cells to leak into your urine.

Hematuria can manifest in two ways:

• Gross hematuria: Visible blood that makes your urine appear pink, red, or cola-colored. This is often the symptom that prompts people to seek medical attention immediately.
• Microscopic hematuria: Blood cells present in urine that are only detectable under a microscope or through laboratory testing. You may not notice this type without a urine test.

The appearance of blood in your urine should never be ignored, as it’s a clear signal that something is affecting your urinary system. While not all cases of hematuria indicate glomerulonephritis, it’s one of the hallmark signs of this kidney condition and warrants immediate medical evaluation.

2. Foamy or Bubbly Urine (Proteinuria)

When you notice that your urine appears unusually foamy or bubbly, similar to beaten egg whites, this could indicate proteinuria—the presence of excess protein in your urine. Healthy glomeruli act as selective filters, preventing large protein molecules from passing through. However, when these filters are damaged by inflammation, proteins like albumin can leak through.

Key characteristics of foamy urine include:

• Persistent bubbles that don’t disappear quickly after flushing
• A frothy appearance similar to soap suds
• Consistency that differs from occasional bubbles caused by forceful urination

Proteinuria is not only a symptom but also a marker of kidney damage severity. The more protein lost through urine, the more significant the glomerular damage may be. This protein loss can lead to other complications, including the next symptom on our list.

3. Edema (Swelling)

Edema, or swelling, is a common and often distressing symptom of glomerulonephritis. This occurs because damaged kidneys cannot effectively remove excess fluid and sodium from your body, and the loss of protein in urine reduces the blood’s ability to hold fluid in blood vessels.

Edema associated with glomerulonephritis typically appears in:

• Face and eyes: Particularly noticeable in the morning, with puffy eyelids and facial swelling
• Ankles and feet: Swelling that worsens throughout the day, especially after standing or sitting for long periods
• Hands: Tightness in rings or difficulty making a fist
• Abdomen: Bloating and fluid accumulation in the abdominal cavity (ascites) in severe cases

The swelling may be mild and barely noticeable at first, or it can be severe enough to cause significant discomfort and limited mobility. The extent of edema often correlates with the severity of kidney dysfunction and protein loss.

4. High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)

Hypertension is both a symptom and a complication of glomerulonephritis. The kidneys play a crucial role in regulating blood pressure by controlling fluid balance and producing hormones that affect blood vessel constriction. When glomerulonephritis impairs kidney function, it disrupts these mechanisms, leading to elevated blood pressure.

Important aspects of hypertension in glomerulonephritis:

• Blood pressure may rise suddenly in acute glomerulonephritis
• Chronic cases often develop persistent hypertension
• High blood pressure can further damage kidneys, creating a dangerous cycle
• Many people with high blood pressure experience no symptoms, making regular monitoring essential

Some individuals may experience symptoms related to severely elevated blood pressure, such as headaches, vision changes, or chest discomfort. Regular blood pressure monitoring is crucial for anyone with suspected or diagnosed glomerulonephritis.

5. Reduced Urine Output (Oliguria)

Oliguria refers to a significant decrease in urine production, typically defined as producing less than 400 milliliters (about 13.5 ounces) of urine per day. This symptom occurs when inflamed glomeruli severely impair the kidneys’ filtering capacity.

Characteristics of reduced urine output include:

• Fewer trips to the bathroom than usual
• Producing smaller amounts of urine with each void
• Darker, more concentrated urine
• A noticeable change from your normal urination pattern

Reduced urine output is concerning because it indicates that your kidneys are struggling to perform their essential function of filtering waste products from your blood. This can lead to dangerous accumulation of fluids and toxins in your body, requiring prompt medical intervention. In severe cases, oliguria can progress to anuria, a complete or near-complete cessation of urine production.

6. Fatigue and Weakness

Persistent fatigue and general weakness are common but often overlooked symptoms of glomerulonephritis. These symptoms can significantly impact your daily life and may result from several factors related to kidney dysfunction.

Reasons for fatigue in glomerulonephritis include:

• Anemia: Damaged kidneys produce less erythropoietin, a hormone that stimulates red blood cell production, leading to reduced oxygen delivery to tissues
• Toxin accumulation: When kidneys fail to filter waste products effectively, these toxins build up in the bloodstream and can cause feelings of illness and exhaustion
• Protein loss: Excessive protein loss through urine depletes the body’s protein stores, affecting energy levels
• Poor sleep quality: Discomfort from other symptoms can interfere with restful sleep

The fatigue associated with glomerulonephritis often feels overwhelming and doesn’t improve with rest. You may find it difficult to complete daily tasks that were once easy, experience decreased exercise tolerance, or feel mentally foggy and unable to concentrate.

7. Loss of Appetite and Nausea

Many people with glomerulonephritis experience a reduced desire to eat, often accompanied by nausea and occasionally vomiting. These gastrointestinal symptoms occur as waste products accumulate in the bloodstream due to impaired kidney filtration.

This symptom may manifest as:

• A persistent feeling of fullness or lack of interest in food
• Nausea that may worsen in the morning or after eating
• Aversion to certain foods, particularly protein-rich foods
• Unexplained weight loss due to reduced food intake
• A metallic taste in the mouth

The loss of appetite can create a problematic cycle: reduced nutrition intake can weaken the body further, making it more difficult to maintain health while dealing with kidney disease. This symptom, combined with protein loss through urine, can lead to malnutrition if not properly addressed.

8. Shortness of Breath (Dyspnea)

Experiencing difficulty breathing or shortness of breath can be a concerning symptom of glomerulonephritis, particularly when the condition is affecting your kidney function significantly.

Shortness of breath in glomerulonephritis can result from:

• Fluid accumulation in lungs: When kidneys cannot remove excess fluid, it may accumulate in the lungs (pulmonary edema), making breathing difficult
• Anemia: Reduced red blood cell count means less oxygen is transported to body tissues, causing breathlessness even with minimal exertion
• Metabolic acidosis: Buildup of acids in the blood can trigger rapid, shallow breathing as the body attempts to compensate

You might notice this symptom when climbing stairs, during physical activity, or in advanced cases, even while resting or lying flat. Some people find they need to sleep propped up on multiple pillows to breathe comfortably. Shortness of breath, especially when it’s new or worsening, requires immediate medical evaluation as it may indicate serious fluid overload or heart complications.

9. Frequent Urination at Night (Nocturia)

Nocturia refers to waking up multiple times during the night with the need to urinate. While occasional nighttime bathroom trips are normal, frequent disruptions to your sleep due to urination can be a sign of glomerulonephritis.

Why nocturia occurs in glomerulonephritis:

• Damaged kidneys lose their ability to concentrate urine properly, producing more dilute urine that requires more frequent elimination
• Fluid that accumulates in lower extremities during the day is mobilized when lying down, increasing urine production at night
• Disrupted kidney hormone production affects the normal day-night urine production cycle

Nocturia can significantly impact your quality of life by causing sleep deprivation, daytime fatigue, and decreased productivity. If you’re regularly waking up two or more times per night to urinate, especially if this represents a change from your normal pattern, it’s worth discussing with your healthcare provider.

10. Flank Pain or Back Pain

While not everyone with glomerulonephritis experiences pain, some individuals report discomfort in the flank area (the sides of your body between your ribs and hips) or lower back where the kidneys are located.

Characteristics of kidney-related pain:

• Dull, aching discomfort rather than sharp pain
• Located on one or both sides of the back, just below the rib cage
• May be constant or come and go
• Generally different from typical muscle-related back pain
• May be accompanied by tenderness when the area is touched

It’s important to note that kidney pain associated with glomerulonephritis tends to be less severe than the intense pain caused by kidney stones or acute infections. However, any persistent back or flank pain, especially when accompanied by other symptoms on this list, should be evaluated by a healthcare professional to determine the underlying cause.

Main Causes of Glomerulonephritis

Understanding what causes glomerulonephritis can help you identify risk factors and take preventive measures when possible. The condition can develop from various underlying causes:

Infections

Post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis is one of the most common infection-related causes, typically developing 1-2 weeks after a strep throat infection or skin infection. Other infections that can trigger glomerulonephritis include bacterial endocarditis (heart infection), viral infections such as HIV, hepatitis B and C, and certain parasitic infections.

Autoimmune Diseases

Several autoimmune conditions can cause the immune system to mistakenly attack the glomeruli, including:

• Lupus nephritis (kidney inflammation associated with systemic lupus erythematosus)
• Goodpasture syndrome
• IgA nephropathy (Berger’s disease)
• Vasculitis conditions affecting blood vessels

Genetic Conditions

Some forms of glomerulonephritis run in families. Alport syndrome and thin basement membrane disease are examples of inherited conditions that affect the glomeruli and can be passed down through generations.

Other Medical Conditions

Diabetes and high blood pressure are leading causes of chronic kidney disease, including glomerular damage. Additionally, conditions like amyloidosis, where abnormal proteins deposit in organs including kidneys, can lead to glomerulonephritis.

Unknown Causes (Idiopathic)

In some cases, doctors cannot identify a specific cause for glomerulonephritis. This is referred to as idiopathic glomerulonephritis and may require a kidney biopsy to classify the type and guide management strategies.

Prevention Strategies

While not all cases of glomerulonephritis can be prevented, especially those related to genetic factors or unknown causes, there are several strategies you can implement to reduce your risk or prevent complications:

Treat Infections Promptly

Seeking timely medical treatment for strep throat, skin infections, and other bacterial infections can prevent post-infectious glomerulonephritis. Complete the full course of antibiotics as prescribed by your healthcare provider, even if you start feeling better before finishing the medication.

Practice Good Hygiene

Regular handwashing, avoiding sharing personal items, and maintaining good dental hygiene can reduce your risk of infections that might trigger glomerulonephritis. This is particularly important during cold and flu season or when exposed to people with contagious illnesses.

Manage Chronic Conditions

If you have diabetes, high blood pressure, or autoimmune diseases, working closely with your healthcare provider to keep these conditions well-controlled can protect your kidneys from damage. This includes taking medications as prescribed, monitoring your blood sugar or blood pressure regularly, and attending all scheduled medical appointments.

Adopt a Kidney-Friendly Lifestyle

Several lifestyle modifications can promote kidney health:

• Maintain a healthy weight through balanced nutrition and regular physical activity
• Limit sodium intake to help control blood pressure and reduce fluid retention
• Stay well-hydrated by drinking adequate water throughout the day
• Avoid excessive use of over-the-counter pain medications (NSAIDs) that can harm kidneys
• Don’t smoke, as tobacco use can worsen kidney disease progression
• Limit alcohol consumption

Regular Health Screenings

Routine check-ups that include blood pressure measurements, urine tests, and blood work can detect early signs of kidney problems before symptoms develop. This is especially important if you have risk factors such as a family history of kidney disease, diabetes, or high blood pressure.

Protect Against Sexually Transmitted Infections

Since certain infections like HIV and hepatitis B and C can lead to glomerulonephritis, practicing safe sex and avoiding sharing needles can reduce your risk of these infections and their kidney-related complications.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between acute and chronic glomerulonephritis?

Acute glomerulonephritis develops suddenly, often following an infection, and may resolve with treatment. Chronic glomerulonephritis develops gradually over months or years, causing progressive kidney damage that may eventually lead to kidney failure. Acute cases present with more obvious symptoms, while chronic forms may have subtle or no symptoms until significant damage has occurred.

Can glomerulonephritis go away on its own?

Some cases of acute glomerulonephritis, particularly post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis in children, can resolve without specific treatment as the immune system recovers. However, many forms require medical management to prevent progression to chronic kidney disease. It’s essential to work with a healthcare provider rather than assuming the condition will resolve independently.

How is glomerulonephritis diagnosed?

Diagnosis typically involves several tests including urinalysis to detect blood and protein in urine, blood tests to assess kidney function and identify underlying causes, imaging studies like ultrasound to examine kidney structure, and sometimes a kidney biopsy to determine the specific type and severity of glomerulonephritis.

Is glomerulonephritis contagious?

Glomerulonephritis itself is not contagious. However, some infections that can trigger glomerulonephritis, such as strep throat, are contagious. The kidney inflammation is an immune response to the infection rather than a direct infection of the kidneys.

Can you live a normal life with glomerulonephritis?

Many people with glomerulonephritis can live full, active lives, especially with early detection and proper management. The prognosis depends on the underlying cause, severity, and how well the condition responds to management strategies. Some cases resolve completely, others remain stable with monitoring, while some may progress to chronic kidney disease requiring more intensive intervention.

What foods should I avoid with glomerulonephritis?

While specific dietary recommendations depend on your individual situation and should be discussed with your healthcare provider or dietitian, general recommendations often include limiting sodium to reduce fluid retention and blood pressure, moderating protein intake based on kidney function levels, limiting potassium and phosphorus if blood levels are elevated, and reducing processed foods. A kidney-friendly diet is typically individualized based on your lab results and symptoms.

When should I see a doctor about possible glomerulonephritis symptoms?

You should seek medical attention promptly if you notice blood in your urine, persistent foamy urine, unexplained swelling especially in your face or legs, significant decrease in urination, or if you develop multiple symptoms mentioned in this article. If you experience severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing, chest pain, or severe swelling, seek emergency medical care immediately.

Can children develop glomerulonephritis?

Yes, children can develop glomerulonephritis, with post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis being one of the most common forms in pediatric patients. It often occurs 1-2 weeks after a throat or skin infection. Children may present with visible blood in urine, puffiness around the eyes, and reduced energy. Fortunately, many children recover completely with appropriate medical care.

References:

• Mayo Clinic – Glomerulonephritis
• National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases – Glomerular Diseases
• National Kidney Foundation – Glomerular Disease
• Johns Hopkins Medicine – Glomerulonephritis
• NHS – Glomerulonephritis