Interstitial Nephritis: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments
Interstitial nephritis, a kidney condition marked by swelling in the spaces between kidney tubules, can cause a range of symptoms from mild to severe. This condition can be acute or chronic, and its causes and treatments vary.
Nonallergic interstitial nephritis can stem from autoimmune disorders, low blood potassium or high blood calcium levels, and certain infections. Symptoms include decreased urine output, fever, blood in urine, exhaustion, confusion, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, rash, water retention, swelling, weight gain, elevated blood pressure, and feeling bloated.
Diagnosis involves a thorough medical history, physical examination, blood tests, urinalysis, abdominal ultrasound, and sometimes a kidney biopsy. Treatment depends on the cause and may include removing the offending drug, anti-inflammatory medications, low-salt and low-protein diets, dialysis, or even a kidney transplant.
Acute interstitial nephritis can also be caused by allergic reactions to drugs. Over 100 medications can trigger this condition, with common culprits including antibiotics like penicillins and sulfonamides, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen and dexibuprofen.
Older adults, frequent users of over-the-counter pain relievers, and those with autoimmune diseases or sarcoidosis are at higher risk for interstitial nephritis. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are crucial to manage this condition and prevent kidney damage.
