Lupus nephritis is an autoimmune disease of the kidneys caused by lupus. When lupus affects the kidneys, it results in lupus nephritis. It is an inflammatory disease affecting the kidneys. Lupus nephritis is a serious disease affecting the kidneys, as it may damage the kidneys altogether.
Diet For Lupus Nephritis
Diet recommendations for lupus nephritis are:
Healthy Diet: As it is an auto immune disease, there is no such diet that can prevent it or cure it totally. But, a healthy diet is always recommended in any disease and lupus nephritis is not an exception. A good balanced diet and positive lifestyle changes can play an important role in treatment of any disease and provide the body with the much-needed nutrition. A well-balanced diet is recommended so that the body gets the required nutrients for the repairing process.
Fruits: Lots of fresh fruits and vegetables are obviously welcome. Whole grains should be taken in plenty. Poultry, fish and meat is to be consumed in moderation.
Anti-Oxidants: As lupus is an inflammatory condition, the foods that reduce the inflammation may be tried, though it is not proved. Similarly, the foods that increase the inflammation may be avoided. Foods rich in anti-oxidants, omega-3 fatty acids etc. may be helpful in fighting the inflammation. Cholesterol increasing foods may be responsible for inflammation. Hence, the foods rich in saturated fats may be avoided. Thus, one may consider lowering the levels of fried foods, packaged and processed foods, canned foods and high fat dairy products.
Calcium Foods: Certain medications prescribed in lupus nephritis may cause bones and muscles problems, by providing a potential risk for development of osteoporosis. Hence, maintaining bone health is of prime importance. Calcium rich diet or calcium supplements with vitamin d in recommended dosage should be incorporated in daily diet regimen.
Balanced Diet: A healthy and balanced diet can prove to be very beneficial in reducing the side effects caused by corticosteroids in lupus nephritis.
Low Sodium Diet: A diet low in sodium should be consumed, in order to avoid fluid retention and to counterbalance high blood pressure. Protein rich food has to be consumed with caution, especially if the kidneys have started to show signs of failure. Foods good for heart are to be consumed in plenty. Also, foods low in potassium and phosphorous may be advised depending upon the progress of the disease.
Moderate Exercise: Exercising in moderation can be extremely helpful. Maintaining a healthy body weight or bringing down the excess weight can go a long way in treatment of lupus nephritis.
Living with lupus nephritis can be a quite challenging job. It may affect you emotionally and mentally. There may be difficulty in sleeping and concentrating.
Understanding the mechanism of lupus nephritis, following the prescribed treatment and medications, maintaining a positive lifestyle and incorporating a healthy and balanced diet in daily routine can help the body in fighting the disease with the much-needed vigor. Severe kidney conditions can be thus prevented. Lupus is considered to be caused by genetically predisposing factors.
Signs And Symptoms Of Lupus Nephritis
The signs and symptoms in lupus nephritis may be different for different persons. Also, they may differ in day to day life. However, general symptoms may most commonly include edema on legs, ankles and feet, frothy or foamy urine, dark urine, increased frequency of urination at night (nocturnal micturition), high blood pressure, joint pains and swelling or either of the two, muscle soreness and pain, fever and a rash most times on the face.
Treatment Of Lupus Nephritis
The treatment mainly focuses on reducing the inflammation in the kidneys, and suppressing the immune system, so that it does not cause further damage by attacking its own cells and organs. Corticosteroids are generally used to reduce the inflammation and immunosuppressants are used to act on the immune system. Medicines needed to control the blood pressure may be prescribed, so that the high blood pressure does not cause further damage to kidneys.
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