This means the kidney structure is affected by disease. It also goes by the name acute glomerulonephritis. It may be preceded by a seemingly simple infection of the throat, or skin, by a germ called the haemolytic streptococcus. By the time kidney symptoms occur, the original infection has usually cleared up.
Symptoms are often vague to start with. The first may be blood in the urine, and the patient might not seem very ill. Sometimes the amount of urine passed is less than normal, and the patient may seem to gain weight quickly as fluid is retained. There may be slight headaches, feeling off colour, tummy upsets and a mild fever.
Sometimes as the disease progresses, more serious symptoms may occur, as the blood pressure rises and adversely affects the brain. The child may become restless and vomit, and mental vagueness, convulsions, visual disturbances and coma are possible. These complicated forms are uncommon, but if any of these symptoms take place, urgent medical attention is essential. Sometimes as the disease worsens, the heart may be affected and the kidneys become more severely involved.
Prompt medical attention is essential with any abnormal urinary symptoms. Blood in the urine needs immediate investigation by the doctor. Although a large number of children appear to recover completely, a certain number develop a longer illness, chronic nephritis. Often hospitalization is necessary.
The important fact is for the parents to be aware of the seriousness of kidney disorders and make certain the child receives prompt attention if showing any of the sinister symptoms that may indicate kidney disease.
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