The moment an individual gets to know he/ she is diagnosed with a nephrotic syndrome, they know that they have to live their rest of life with precautions, medications, hospital check- ups and risks of severity. However, each and every person still wants to live a long and satisfying life even with a life- long disease attached to them, but is it really possible to have nephrotic syndrome?
This is what we are going to find out today with the reasons of how a person is able to live a long life even after a nephrotic syndrome and what he/ she needs to do to achieve that life journey…
What Is Nephrotic Syndrome?
Nephrotic syndrome is a kidney disorder characterized by the body excreting too much protein in the urine (a condition known as proteinuria). Normally, the kidneys filter waste while retaining essential proteins in the blood. But when the filtering units—called glomeruli—are damaged, they leak protein into the urine.
There are some key symptoms that occur in an individual if he is suffering from nephritic syndrome or a compromised kidney health. These are:
- Severe swelling (edema), especially in the legs, ankles, and around the eyes
- Foamy urine, due to high protein levels
- Fatigue and weakness
- Weight gain from fluid retention
- Loss of appetite
Nephrotic syndrome isn’t a disease itself—it’s a group of symptoms caused by underlying kidney damage, and that damage can have different causes.
What Causes Nephrotic Syndrome?
Nephrotic syndrome can be caused by primary kidney diseases or secondary systemic conditions. Understanding the root cause plays a huge role in managing it.
Some of the primary causes of a nephrotic syndrome to develop in a person are:
Originating Directly in the Kidneys
- Minimal change disease (most common in children)
- Focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS)
- Membranous nephropathy
Linked to Other Conditions That Affects the Kidney Health and Functioning
- Diabetes mellitus
- Lupus (systemic lupus erythematosus)
- Infections like hepatitis B, hepatitis C, or HIV
- Certain medications or toxins
- Amyloidosis or cancers in rare cases
So, Can You Live a Long Life with Nephrotic Syndrome?
The simple answer is Yes!, with a but that holds many conditions like getting proper checkups done regularly, taking proper care of health, following the necessary precautions, medical needs and lifestyle changes, etc.
Early Diagnosis & Treatment Matter
Catching nephrotic syndrome early allows for timely treatment and reduces the risk of permanent kidney damage. Regular checkups, urine tests, and blood work help monitor kidney function and protein levels.
Type and Severity of Underlying Disease
Some underlying causes of nephrotic syndrome (like minimal change disease) respond very well to treatment and have an excellent prognosis. Others, like FSGS or secondary nephrotic syndrome from diabetes, may be more challenging but can still be managed effectively with the right care.
Risk of Complications
Left untreated, nephrotic syndrome can lead to:
- Chronic kidney disease (CKD)
- End-stage kidney disease (ESKD), which may require dialysis or a kidney transplant
- Infections due to immune system suppression
- Blood clots (from low protein and higher clotting factors)
- High cholesterol and heart disease
However, these risks can often be prevented or controlled with medications, diet, and regular medical monitoring.
Response to Treatment
Corticosteroids and immunosuppressants are commonly used to control inflammation and reduce protein leakage. Many people go into remission, especially those with minimal change disease. Others may have relapsing-remitting nephrotic syndrome, which can still be managed long term.
How to Manage Nephrotic Syndrome for a Healthier Life
Follow Your Treatment Plan Closely
Treatment may include:
- Corticosteroids (like prednisone)
- Immunosuppressants
- ACE inhibitors or ARBs (to reduce protein loss and protect kidneys)
- Diuretics (to manage swelling)
- Statins (for high cholesterol)
- Blood thinners (in patients with clotting risk)
Always take medications as prescribed and attend follow-up appointments.
Adopt a Kidney-Friendly Diet
What a person eats always affects his/ her health condition and body health ration, whether suffering from a disease or not. When an individual gets affected by a nephrotic issue, his diet can change a lot how his body cope with the disease and change. What can help in maintaining a good health status is taking a low- sodium based diet, taking protein in moderate quantity, limit the intake of saturated and trans fats and also limiting the phosphorus and potassium quantity in the diet.
Stay Active and Maintain a Healthy Weight
Regular physical activity can help control cholesterol, blood pressure, and blood sugar—factors that all impact kidney health.
Even light exercise, like walking or yoga, can improve circulation, mood, and energy levels.
Monitor Blood Pressure and Blood Sugar
High blood pressure and diabetes are major threats to kidney health. Keep both in check with:
- Routine monitoring
- Lifestyle changes
- Medications, if prescribed
Get Regular Lab Tests and Checkups from a Nephrologist Chermside
Frequent testing helps monitor:
- Kidney function (creatinine, GFR)
- Protein levels in urine
- Electrolytes
- Cholesterol and triglycerides
- Medication side effects
Early changes in lab values can prompt timely adjustments in treatment, especially when monitored regularly by a Nephrologist in Chermside.
