[Click! Health] "Morning Eye Puffiness"... Kidney Health 'Warning Sign'

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Young-won] The kidneys, located side by side under the ribs on the back of both sides of our body, are the size of a fist and shaped like red beans, which is why they are called 'kongpat' (kidneys). They are important organs that excrete waste products from the blood and maintain homeostasis in the body. The 'glomeruli,' which serve as the core filters of the kidneys, number about 2 million in total in both kidneys.

At this time, inflammation can occur in the glomeruli due to immune responses to bacteria or viruses, or due to incorrect autoimmune reactions. When inflammation occurs in the glomeruli, they cannot properly perform their function of filtering waste while preventing necessary blood components or proteins from passing through.

Among glomerular diseases, 'glomerulonephritis,' which presents with hematuria and decreased kidney function, varies greatly in type and symptoms. When the glomeruli are damaged by glomerulonephritis, blood and protein leak into the urine, causing hematuria and proteinuria. Swelling may appear in the face, especially around the eyes in the morning, and around the legs or ankles in the evening. Additionally, foamy urine may be observed. The main symptoms of rapidly progressing glomerulonephritis include decreased urine output, shortness of breath, and high blood pressure.

Professor Kim Jin-sook of the Department of Nephrology at Kyung Hee University Hospital emphasized, "If treatment is delayed or neglected, it can progress to chronic renal failure, that is, chronic kidney disease, so early detection and treatment are most important. Diagnosis is possible with simple blood and urine tests, so if you have the symptoms mentioned above, I recommend visiting a hospital without hesitation."

Glomerulonephritis is broadly classified into primary glomerulonephritis and secondary glomerulonephritis. Secondary glomerulonephritis occurs due to systemic diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, infections, autoimmune diseases, and vasculitis. The cause of primary glomerulonephritis involves immune regulation disorders, but the exact pathogenesis has not yet been fully elucidated.

Treatment is tailored according to the patient's condition, selecting immunosuppressants, biologics, and other medications accordingly. If the kidneys are already damaged, treatment of related complications should also be conducted simultaneously. Professor Kim advised, "Some patients with glomerulonephritis avoid foods high in potassium such as oranges, bananas, and tomatoes unconditionally, but depending on the patient's condition, if kidney function is not deteriorated and remains normal, these foods may actually be recommended. Therefore, it is best to consult with specialized medical staff regarding dietary habits."