Nephrotic syndrome

Nephrotic syndromes occur because of damage to the small filtering units of the kidneys. Due to the damage to the fibrils, too much protein slips from blood into the urine. As a result, fluid builds up in the body and causes swelling.

Symptoms

• Symptoms include swelling around the eyes or in the feet or ankles.
• Weight gain from fluid build-up, foamy urine, loss of appetite and tiredness. Fluid may eventually collect in the abdomen and in the chest.

Diagnosis

• It is made by assessing the protein level in blood & urine.
• Ultrasound scan and a kidney biopsy may be required to diagnose the cause.