Diseases and Disorders of the Kidney
- Nephritis
It is the inflammation of the glomerulus due to bacterial infections or associated infections e.g. small pox, measles or sore throat.
The bacteria produces toxins which destroy the glomerular tissue, thus enlarging the tiny pores in the capsular wall which causes leakage of plasma molecules.
Symptoms
- Headaches
- Fever
- Vomiting
- Highly coloured urine due to presence of proteins.
Control and Treatment
- Dietary restrictions especially on salts and proteins.
- Administration of drugs to control the predisposing diseases.
- Kidney stones
Caused by chemical salts in urine such as oxalates, phosphates, urates and uric acid.
Undergo precipitation forming hard deposits or stones in the pelvis and ureter causing blockage of urine.
Kidney stones are commonly caused by improper diet lacking certain vitamins and inadequate intake of water.
Symptoms
- Increased frequency in passing out urine to get rid of salts.
- Pain and soreness in upper back side.
- Chills and fever.
Control and Treatment
- Take a balanced diet with plenty of water.
- Take hot baths and massage the back with hot soft material.
- Surgical treatment involving either kidney transplant or removal of kidney stones.
- Dialysis or artificially washing out the precipitated materials.
- Albuminuria (Proteinuria)
It is a condition in which proteins are found in urine.
This is due to increased permeability of glomerular capillaries.
Increased permeability of glomerular capillaries may be caused by bacterial infection and pore enlargement.
It is characterized by fluid accumulation in tissues (oedema).
Treatment is by controlling factors which damage the glomerulus.
- Kidney failure/ renal failure
Is a condition where the kidney fails to perform its function.
Such treatment can be administered either by kidney dialysis (washing artificially) or kidney transplant.
- Gout
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