Glomerulonephritis
Treatment
Treatment depends on the type of glomerulonephritis. When it
is caused by an infection, antibiotics may be given. Many treatments can cause
serious side effects because they attack the whole immune system. Treatment
may include drug therapy, such as ACE (angiotensin converting enzymes) inhibitors,
ARBs (Angiotensin II receptor agonists), diuretics, calcium channel blockers
and beta blockers.
Severe forms of glomerulonephritis
are treated with medications to control high blood pressure, as well as changes
in diet to reduce the work of the kidneys. The patients may be advised to drink
less fluid and to avoid certain drinks such as alcohol and drinks with a lot
of sodium chloride (salt) and potassium.
In some cases glomerulonephritis becomes a chronic condition
that lasts for years and progresses to end-stage renal failure. Treatment options
of such cases include dialysis and kidney transplant.
|