Conditions Affecting the Kidneys
NANI doctors and their nurse practitioners treat a wide range of conditions related to the kidneys. Many are listed here. The links below will direct you to third-party websites for more information. NANI provides references for patient information only and is not responsible for the content on these off-site websites.
Early stages of CKD often go unnoticed because symptoms can be subtle or absent until the disease has progressed. Regular screening is vital, especially for individuals with diabetes, hypertension, or a family history of kidney problems. Management includes lifestyle modifications, medication, and close monitoring to slow the progression and prevent complications.
- Progressive loss of kidney function over time
- Often caused by diabetes, high blood pressure, or glomerulonephritis
- Can lead to end-stage renal disease (ESRD) requiring dialysis or transplant
AKI can develop rapidly over hours or days, often during hospitalization for another illness or surgery. Prompt recognition and treatment are crucial to avoid long-term damage. Treatment typically involves identifying and addressing the underlying cause, supporting kidney function, and preventing fluid and electrolyte imbalances.
- Sudden loss of kidney function, often reversible
- Causes include dehydration, infections, medications, or shock
This condition may cause foamy urine due to protein loss, swelling around the eyes or in the legs, and elevated blood pressure. A kidney biopsy may be necessary to identify the specific type of glomerulonephritis, guiding treatment decisions. In many cases, immunosuppressive therapy and blood pressure control play key roles in management.
- Inflammation of the kidney’s filtering units (glomeruli)
- Can be acute or chronic
- Often caused by infections, autoimmune diseases (like lupus), or vasculitis
PKD can also cause complications beyond the kidneys, such as liver cysts, high blood pressure, and aneurysms. Genetic counseling is often recommended for families affected by PKD, and regular monitoring with imaging and blood tests helps track disease progression and prevent complications.
- Genetic disorder where fluid-filled cysts form in the kidneys
- Can lead to kidney enlargement and failure over time
Stone formation can be influenced by diet, hydration habits, and genetics. Depending on the stone’s size and location, treatment can range from increased fluid intake and pain management to minimally invasive procedures like lithotripsy or surgical removal. Preventative strategies are tailored to the type of stone involved.
- Hard deposits of minerals and salts inside the kidneys
- Cause severe pain, blood in urine, and sometimes infection
If left untreated, a simple UTI can evolve into a more serious kidney infection. Pyelonephritis often requires antibiotics and, in severe cases, hospitalization. Preventive strategies include proper hydration, hygiene practices, and addressing any underlying urinary tract abnormalities.
- UTIs can ascend to the kidneys, causing pyelonephritis
- Symptoms include fever, back pain, nausea, and frequent urination
Beyond swelling and protein loss, nephrotic syndrome increases the risk of infections and blood clots due to changes in immune function and blood protein levels. Treatment often requires a multidisciplinary approach, including nephrologists, dietitians, and pharmacists to manage both the disease and its systemic effects.
- A group of symptoms including proteinuria, low blood protein, high cholesterol, and swelling
- Often related to damage to the glomeruli
Over time, high blood sugar levels can damage the tiny blood vessels in the kidneys. Regular monitoring of urine for protein and blood for kidney function markers helps catch problems early. Tight glucose and blood pressure control are the cornerstones of preventing further kidney damage.
- Kidney damage due to long-term uncontrolled diabetes
- Leading cause of CKD in many countries
This form of kidney damage may not cause noticeable symptoms until the kidneys are significantly impaired. Early intervention with antihypertensive medications and lifestyle changes can help protect the kidneys and reduce cardiovascular risks associated with long-standing high blood pressure.
- Damage to kidneys due to chronic high blood pressure
- Can lead to CKD or worsen existing kidney problems
This condition is often suspected when blood pressure is difficult to control despite multiple medications. Diagnostic imaging, such as Doppler ultrasound or CT angiography, is used to visualize blood flow to the kidneys. Treatment may involve medication, angioplasty, or stenting depending on the severity of the blockage.
- Narrowing of the arteries that supply blood to the kidneys
- Can cause or worsen high blood pressure and decrease kidney function
Because lupus can affect multiple organ systems, a coordinated care plan involving a rheumatologist and nephrologist is essential. Lupus nephritis may flare unpredictably, so consistent monitoring through urine tests and lab work is necessary to adjust treatment and prevent permanent kidney damage.
- Kidney inflammation caused by systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)
- Can lead to CKD if untreated
