Kidney inflammation

Kidney inflammation is an umbrella term for many different kidney diseases. It causes a decreased output of urine.

Overview

Kidney inflammation is an umbrella term for many different kidney diseases. It causes a decreased output of urine. The urine is also bloody and/or cloudy. Swelling of the face and feet and an increase in blood pressure are typical. A doctor should be consulted if these symptoms appear.

Symptoms

Main symptoms

  • Decreased urine output
  • Swelling of the legs/feet and the face (oedema)
  • Bloody and/or cloudy urine
  • Increase in blood pressure (frequently announced by headaches)

Other symptoms

  • General feeling of being unwell: fatigue, exhaustion, nausea, vomiting, high temperature
  • Advanced stage: dull kidney pain (along the side)
  • Pale skin for chronic inflammation
  • Complications: acute and severe deterioration in kidney function (acute kidney failure), seizures

Causes and treatment

Causes

  • Immunological and autoimmune processes in the kidneys, e.g. following infection elsewhere in the body (such as after tonsillitis) or in the context of rheumatic diseases
  • Medication such as antibiotics, anti-rheumatic drugs, etc.
  • Metabolic disorders, in particular diabetes
  • Spreading of pyelitis to the kidneys

Further treatment by your doctor / in hospital

Possible tests
  • Blood and urine tests
  • Ultrasound
  • Possibly biopsy (removal of tissue sample) and CT scan (computed tomography)
Possible therapies
  • Antibiotics (for bacterial infections)
  • Medication to lower blood pressure
  • Immunosuppressants (e.g. cortisone)
  • Diuretics
  • Short- or long-term dialysis

What can I do myself?

  • Bed rest
  • Diet: low-salt and low-protein diet with fruit, fruit juices, porridge, vegetables, potatoes, bread
  • Seek treatment for triggering diseases

When to see a doctor?

  • Decreased urine output
  • Reddish to bloody urine, cloudy urine
  • Swelling of the legs/feet and face
  • Noticeable increase in blood pressure
  • Pain in the upper abdomen and/or the sides
  • Additionally: general feeling of being unwell

Synonyms

kidney inflammation, nephritis, glomerulonephritis, nephrotic syndrome, nephritic syndrome

Exclusion of liability

CSS offers no guarantee for the accuracy and completeness of the information. The information published is no substitute for professional advice from a doctor or pharmacist.