About this condition
Glomerulonephritis describes inflammation affecting the kidney filters. Children may show blood or protein in urine, swelling or raised blood pressure, but not all signs are present in every case. Evaluation is needed to identify the type and severity.
What matters most
The condition may follow certain infections or arise for other reasons. A change in urine colour and morning puffiness around the eyes can prompt assessment, although a child may seem otherwise well at first.
Symptoms and situations to watch
Warning clues include tea-coloured or reddish urine, proteinuria, swelling, reduced urine output, high blood pressure, headache and fatigue. It is important to ask about recent illness and the timing of the symptoms.
Important distinctions
A single positive urine strip does not identify the type of glomerulonephritis. Other causes of blood in urine or oedema must be considered. Significant hypertension or rapidly falling urine output is more urgent than an isolated stable test finding.
How clinicians assess the problem
Clinical assessment includes blood pressure, urine examination for blood and protein, kidney-function measurements and selected investigations according to the picture. A paediatric nephrologist determines whether further specialised testing and observation are necessary.
Care and limitations
Management depends on the underlying form and kidney function. It may involve close monitoring or condition-specific treatment. Do not self-prescribe diuretics, antibiotics, steroids or fluid restrictions; follow-up is important even after symptoms improve.
When emergency help is needed
Markedly reduced urine, rapidly worsening swelling, severe headache with high blood pressure or significant deterioration requires urgent evaluation. Seizures or confusion are emergencies: call 103 or 112.
Related information
Swelling in a child; Blood in a child’s urine; Protein in a child’s urine; Congenital kidney and urinary tract differences in children.
Signs and symptoms
Warning clues include tea-coloured or reddish urine, proteinuria, swelling, reduced urine output, high blood pressure, headache and fatigue. It is important to ask about recent illness and the timing of the symptoms.
Diagnosis and tests
Clinical assessment includes blood pressure, urine examination for blood and protein, kidney-function measurements and selected investigations according to the picture. A paediatric nephrologist determines whether further specialised testing and observation are necessary.
Care and treatment approaches
Management depends on the underlying form and kidney function. It may involve close monitoring or condition-specific treatment. Do not self-prescribe diuretics, antibiotics, steroids or fluid restrictions; follow-up is important even after symptoms improve.
When to seek urgent care
Markedly reduced urine, rapidly worsening swelling, severe headache with high blood pressure or significant deterioration requires urgent evaluation. Seizures or confusion are emergencies: call 103 or 112.
Frequently asked questions
Is there always visible blood in the urine?
No. Blood may be microscopic and detectable only by testing; other findings such as proteinuria or high blood pressure also matter.
Can the type be identified from one test?
No. The diagnosis requires a combination of history, examination and appropriately selected investigations.
Is follow-up needed after improvement?
Often yes. Blood pressure, urine findings and kidney function may require monitoring according to the clinician’s plan.
Important information
A medical consultation is needed for diagnosis and treatment recommendations.
Self-treatment can be harmful to your health.
