Nephrotic Syndrome: How to Care for Your Child

Nephrotic syndrome usually can be managed with medication. Kids who respond to medication are unlikely to develop chronic kidney problems.

Nephrotic syndrome is a kidney disorder. Normally, the kidneys filter blood to remove waste products and excess water from the body. They also keep key components (like protein) in the blood.

In nephrotic syndrome, the protein from the blood spills into the urine. Lower protein in the blood leads to fluid buildup in the body tissues. Nephrotic syndrome is most common in young children, but can happen at any age.

The main symptom usually is swelling around the eyes, face, abdomen, feet, and ankles (called edema); this often is first noticed after a child has had a cold. Your child also may eat less than usual, feel tired, or have belly pain, breathing problems, or decreased urination (peeing).

In most kids who develop nephrotic syndrome, the cause is not known. But in some cases it is caused by a condition, such as lupus.

Treatment usually includes steroids, which help the disease subside. Your health care provider may have recommended additional medications and dietary changes like salt reduction to treat symptoms and control the balance of body fluids.

Nephrotic syndrome eventually resolves over several months to years. Relapses (additional episodes of illness following symptom-free periods) may occur, especially after colds or other infections.

• Give your child any prescribed medicines as directed by your health care provider.

• Your child should avoid salty packaged foods and adding salt to food.

• Follow any additional instructions your health care provider gives you about diet.

Your child:

• Develops a fever.

• Has swelling that gets worse.

• Gains weight.

• Pees less often than usual or has dark-colored urine.

• Feels pain during urination.

• Has diarrhea.

Your child:

• Has severe stomach pain.

• Has severe leg pain or swelling, or the skin of the leg is warm to the touch.

• Has a severe headache.

• Feels short of breath or has chest pain.

Once your child starts feeling better, your health care provider may recommend monitoring your child's weight and urine protein levels. Your health care team will show you how to do this.