HEAVY PROTEIN LOSS IN THE URINE
Nephrotic Syndrome
A kidney condition with heavy protein loss in the urine, leading to swelling, low blood protein and high cholesterol. Managed in coordination with nephrology and underlying-cause treatment.
ABOUT THIS CONDITION
What is Nephrotic Syndrome
Nephrotic syndrome is a kidney condition characterised by heavy loss of protein in the urine (more than 3.5 grams per day), low protein levels in the blood, swelling (oedema) and high cholesterol levels. It results from damage to the filtering units of the kidneys (glomeruli) and can be due to a range of conditions — primary kidney diseases such as minimal change disease, focal segmental glomerulosclerosis and membranous nephropathy, and secondary causes such as diabetes, lupus, infections and certain medications. Typical features include significant swelling of the legs, around the eyes and sometimes generalised fluid retention; foamy urine; tiredness; reduced appetite; and weight gain. Patients are at increased risk of infections, blood clots and progressive kidney damage. Diagnosis is based on urine and blood tests, kidney imaging and sometimes kidney biopsy. Treatment focuses on the underlying cause, reducing protein loss, controlling swelling and managing complications. Dr. Patnam Pravallika Reddy provides initial evaluation and co-management with nephrology at Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad.
SIGNS TO WATCH
Common Symptoms
Symptoms that need attention
WHY IT HAPPENS
Causes & Risk Factors
- Minimal change disease (more common in children)
- Focal segmental glomerulosclerosis
- Membranous nephropathy
- Diabetes affecting the kidneys
- Lupus and other autoimmune conditions
- Infections including hepatitis B and C
- Certain medications and rare inherited conditions
CLINICAL DETAILS
KeyFacts
Urine and blood tests showing heavy proteinuria, low albumin, high cholesterol; kidney biopsy in selected cases
Specific therapy for the cause, reduction of proteinuria and management of complications
Infections, blood clots, progressive kidney damage and lipid abnormalities
Nephrology co-management is essential
Salt restriction and adequate nutrition are important
Available at Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad — co-managed with specialist nephrology
HOW WE TREAT IT
Treatment Approach
Cause-Specific Therapy with Complication Management
The most effective approach is identifying the underlying cause through clinical evaluation and, where needed, kidney biopsy, followed by cause-specific therapy, reduction of proteinuria, and structured management of complications — all in coordination with specialist nephrology.
- 1
Consultation & Assessment
Dr. Pravallika reviews symptoms, examines for swelling and arranges blood and urine tests with referral for kidney biopsy when needed.
- 2
Treatment Planning
A personalised plan is created in coordination with nephrology based on the underlying cause and severity.
- 3
Medical Management
Cause-specific therapy, kidney-protective medication, diuretic therapy for swelling, infection prevention and lipid management.
- 4
Recovery & Follow-up
Long-term follow-up with regular blood and urine tests to monitor response, detect relapse and address complications.
AVAILABLE TREATMENTS
Treatment Options
Identifying and Treating Underlying Cause
Specific therapy is directed at the underlying cause — immune-modifying therapy for primary glomerular diseases, treatment of diabetes or autoimmune disease, and so on.
Kidney-Protective Medical Therapy
Specific medical therapy reduces proteinuria and helps protect kidney function over time.
Diuretic Therapy and Salt Restriction
Diuretic therapy combined with dietary salt restriction reduces swelling and fluid retention.
Infection Prevention and Treatment
Patients are at higher risk of infections and may need vaccinations and prompt treatment of infections.
Lipid Management and Anticoagulation in Selected Cases (Referral for nephrology)
High cholesterol and risk of blood clots are managed under specialist care, with specific therapy in selected patients.
COMMON QUESTIONS
Frequently Asked Questions
Not sure about your condition?
Compassionate, confidential consultations — Book your appointment today.