What are the signs of nephron damage or disease?

Signs of nephron damage or disease include proteinuria, haematuria, high blood pressure, and decreased kidney function.

Nephrons are the functional units of the kidneys, responsible for filtering blood and producing urine. Damage or disease in these units can lead to a variety of symptoms. One of the most common signs is proteinuria, which is an abnormally high level of protein in the urine. This occurs because damaged nephrons are unable to properly filter protein, allowing it to pass into the urine.

Another sign is haematuria, or blood in the urine. This can occur when there is damage to the glomeruli, the tiny blood vessels in the nephrons. When these vessels are damaged, red blood cells can leak into the urine. Haematuria can be visible to the naked eye, or it may only be detectable under a microscope.

High blood pressure is also a common sign of nephron damage or disease. The kidneys play a crucial role in regulating blood pressure by controlling the balance of salt and water in the body. When nephrons are damaged, they may not be able to properly regulate this balance, leading to high blood pressure.

Decreased kidney function is another sign of nephron damage. This can be measured by a blood test that checks the level of creatinine, a waste product that healthy kidneys should filter out. If the kidneys are not functioning properly, the level of creatinine in the blood will be higher than normal.

In addition to these signs, individuals with nephron damage or disease may also experience symptoms such as swelling in the hands and feet, fatigue, and frequent urination. These symptoms occur because the kidneys are not able to properly filter waste and excess fluid from the body. It's important to note that these signs and symptoms can also be caused by other conditions, so it's crucial to seek medical advice if you're experiencing any of these issues.