PSGN - Poststreptococcal Glomerulonephritis

What are the treatments for the disease?

Treatment is usually directed at the symptoms. Many people can be treated at home. Those with more severe symptoms need to stay in the hospital. Limiting fluid and salt intake can help with skin swelling. Medications called diuretics, such as furosemide, may also be needed for swelling or breathing trouble. Blood pressure medications, such as amlodipine, may be needed for high blood pressure. Those who develop kidney failure will often need dialysis or a kidney transplant.

What are the side effects of the treatments?

Diuretics may cause allergic reactions, stomach upset, and salt imbalances. Dialysis requires surgery to get the person ready to be hooked up to the blood-filtering machine. Dialysis can cause salt imbalances and even death. Surgery may cause infections, bleeding, or allergic reactions to anesthesia.

What happens after treatment for the disease?

Most people with PSGN recover completely and need no further treatment. Those who have severe kidney damage may need monitoring and treatment for many years, or even life.

How is the disease monitored?

Many people can be watched by caregivers at home. Any change in symptoms or response to treatment can be reported to the healthcare provider. Those with more serious kidney damage need closer monitoring with blood and urine tests. Blood pressure may also need to be monitored in those with high blood pressure.