Nephrotic Syndrome in Children: Care Instructions
Overview
Healthy kidneys filter wastes from the blood. They also help balance water, salt, and mineral levels in the blood. When your child has this kidney problem, there will be high levels of protein in the urine. There may also be low levels of protein and high levels of cholesterol in the blood.
The most common symptom is swelling around the eyes or in the feet or ankles. Your child may also have foamy urine or weight gain from fluid buildup. The syndrome also increases the risk of infections and blood clots.
The main cause of nephrotic syndrome in children is minimal change disease. In this disease the kidneys' filters are slightly damaged enough to cause blood not be be filtered as it should. Nephrotic syndrome can also be caused by some infections and other diseases that affect the kidneys.
Which treatment your child gets depends on what is causing the syndrome. The doctor might prescribe medicines. Your child might also need other treatments if the syndrome is causing other health problems. These problems may include high or low blood pressure, or infections caused by bacteria.
Follow-up care is a key part of your child's treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor or nurse advice line (811 in most provinces and territories) if your child is having problems. It's also a good idea to know your child's test results and keep a list of the medicines your child takes.
How can you care for your child?
Work with your doctor
- If your doctor prescribed medicines, give them as prescribed. Keep giving them even after your child starts to feel better. Call your doctor if you think your child is having a problem with a medicine.
- See the doctor regularly to have your child's kidney function checked.
- Make sure your doctor knows about all the medicines or natural health products your child takes. This means anything your child takes with or without a prescription.
- Make sure your child gets the influenza (flu) vaccine each year. As some vaccines may not be safe or effective while your child is taking some medicines to treat the nephrotic syndrome, talk to your child's doctor before they get any vaccines.
Care for your child at home
- Cut down on salt in your child's food. This can reduce the amount of water your child's body retains and can help treat the swelling.
- Follow your doctor's advice for the amounts of fluids, protein and potassium your child needs.
- Be gentle with your child's skin to prevent infection.
When should you call for help?
Call 911 anytime you think your child may need emergency care.
Call your doctor or nurse advice line now or seek immediate medical care if:
- Your child has severe swelling.
- Your child has trouble breathing.
- Your child has decreased consciousness.
- Your child has a persistent fever.
- Your child has symptoms of a skin infection, such as:
- Increased pain, swelling, warmth, or redness.
Watch closely for changes in your child's health, and be sure to contact your doctor or nurse advice line if:
- Your child does not get better as expected.
Where can you learn more?
Go to https://www.healthwise.net/patientEd
Enter W935 in the search box to learn more about "Nephrotic Syndrome in Children: Care Instructions".
Adaptation Date: 03/01/2022
Adapted By: Alberta Health Services
Adaptation Reviewed By: Alberta Health Services
