Two kidneys are located side by side behind the sides of our body, under the ribs in the back. It is called a kidney bean because it is shaped like a fist-sized kidney bean and is colored red. It is an important organ that excretes waste products in the blood and maintains homeostasis in the body. There are a total of 2 million glomeruli in both kidneys, which act as a key filter for the kidneys.
Professor Kim Jin-sook of the Department of Nephrology at Kyung Hee University Hospital said, “If inflammation occurs in the glomerulus due to an immune response to bacteria or viruses or an erroneous autoimmune response, it cannot properly perform its function of filtering out waste products and preventing the passage of blood or proteins necessary for our body. “As glomerulonephritis, which is characterized by hematuria and decreased renal function among glomerular diseases, has very diverse types and symptoms, it must be accompanied by accurate diagnosis and examination by specialized medical staff,” he said.
If glomerulonephritis damages the glomeruli, hematuria and proteinuria occur as blood and protein leak out of the urine, and swelling may appear on the face, especially around the eyes in the morning, and around the legs or ankles in the evening. In addition, foamy urine may also be observed. The main symptoms of rapidly progressing glomerulonephritis are decreased urine output, dyspnea, and hypertension.
Professor Kim Jin-sook said, “If treatment is missed and neglected, it can develop into chronic renal failure, or chronic kidney disease, so early detection and treatment are the most important.” If so, do not hesitate to visit the hospital,” he stressed.
Glomerulonephritis is largely divided into primary glomerulonephritis and secondary glomerulonephritis. Secondary glomerulonephritis is caused by systemic diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, infection, autoimmune disease, and vasculitis. On the other hand, the cause of primary glomerulonephritis is immunomodulatory disorder, but all pathogenesis has not yet been clearly identified.
Professor Kim said, “Treatment is carried out by selecting customized drugs such as immunosuppressants and biological agents depending on the patient’s condition, and if the kidneys have already been damaged, related complications must be treated at the same time.” In some cases, eating foods high in potassium is unconditionally avoided, but depending on the patient’s condition, when kidney function is not deteriorating and normal, it can be rather recommended, so it is good to consult with professional medical staff regarding eating habits.
