Pediatric Nephrology: Common Kidney Disorders in Children
The kidneys play a vital role in maintaining a child's overall health by filtering waste, balancing electrolytes, and regulating fluid levels in the body. However, kidney disorders in children can sometimes go unnoticed until they become serious. Pediatric nephrology focuses on diagnosing and treating kidney-related conditions in infants, children, and adolescents. Recognizing the symptoms early can help ensure timely treatment and prevent long-term complications.
Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)
What It Is: UTIs occur when bacteria enter the urinary tract, leading to infection in the bladder or kidneys. They are one of the most common kidney-related issues in children.
Symptoms:
- Pain or burning sensation while urinating
- Frequent urge to urinate
- Cloudy or foul-smelling urine
- Fever and abdominal pain
- Irritability (in infants)
Nephrotic Syndrome
What It Is: Nephrotic syndrome is a kidney disorder that causes excessive protein loss in urine due to damage to the kidney’s filtering units (glomeruli).
Symptoms:
- Swelling in the face, legs, or abdomen
- Foamy or frothy urine
- Fatigue and weakness
- Increased risk of infections
Treatment typically involves steroids, diuretics, and dietary adjustments to manage symptoms and prevent relapses.
Acute Kidney Injury (AKI)
What It Is: AKI is a sudden decline in kidney function, often caused by infections, dehydration, or exposure to certain medications.
Symptoms:
- Decreased urine output
- Swelling in hands and feet
- High blood pressure
- Fatigue and confusion
AKI can usually be reversed with hydration, medication adjustments, and supportive care, but severe cases may require hospitalization.
Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)
What It Is: CKD is a progressive condition where kidney function declines over time, leading to long-term complications. It may be caused by genetic conditions, infections, or congenital abnormalities.
Symptoms:
- Poor growth and delayed development
- Frequent urination
- High blood pressure
- Nausea and loss of appetite
Vesicoureteral Reflux (VUR)
What It Is: VUR is a condition where urine flows backward from the bladder into the kidneys, increasing the risk of infections and kidney damage.
Symptoms:
- Recurrent UTIs
- Bedwetting or urinary incontinence
- Fever and abdominal pain
- Blood in urine
Kidney Stones in Children
What It Is: Kidney stones are hard mineral deposits that form in the kidneys and can cause severe pain when passing through the urinary tract.
Symptoms:
- Sharp pain in the lower back or abdomen
- Blood in urine
- Difficulty urinating
- Nausea and vomiting
Congenital Kidney Abnormalities
What It Is: Some children are born with structural abnormalities in their kidneys, which may affect their function. These conditions include polycystic kidney disease (PKD) or horseshoe kidney.
Symptoms:
- High blood pressure
- Recurrent infections
- Poor growth
- Fluid retention
Early Detection, Better Protection for Kidney Health
Early detection and management of kidney disorders can help prevent long-term complications and ensure healthy development in children. Pediatric nephrologists specialize in diagnosing and treating these conditions, ensuring that young patients receive the best possible care.
Kanchi Kamakoti CHILDS Trust Hospital (KKCTH) offers specialized pediatric nephrology care, helping children maintain optimal kidney health under the observation of their expert team.
