What lifestyle steps can protect my kidneys?

Question

Hello doctor,

I have had lupus for a while, but now they are saying it is affecting my kidneys, something called lupus nephritis. I am 40 and honestly terrified. My labs showed protein in my urine and high creatinine. What does that mean? They are talking about strong medications like steroids and immunosuppressants.

I am worried about the side effects, especially as a woman. Will this affect my fertility or bones? Can you explain in plain terms how serious this is and if there is any chance of reversing it? I am trying to stay hopeful, but feel lost. What questions should I be asking right now? Please help me understand what is really happening to my kidneys.

Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

Lupus nephritis is an autoimmune condition affecting the kidneys, causing them to swell. So basically, that affects the function of the kidney, leading to improper waste management in the body, high blood pressure, and eventually kidneys may fail.

Since this is an autoimmune condition, there is no cure because it is all mediated through the immune system. It will cause symptoms like swelling of the face, hands, and feet; blood in urine; and high blood pressure.

This will also lead to raised creatinine levels in the blood and increased excretion of protein in urine.

Also, women are more likely to be affected by lupus. If the disease keeps progressing and there is kidney failure, one may require dialysis as well, but with dietary and lifestyle modifications, one can control disease progression to some level.

Drugs like corticosteroids and immunosuppressants do help with the inflammation and will have to be started. You will also require medicine for the control of blood pressure. You have to strictly limit salt and protein in your diet.

Autoimmune disease largely requires lifestyle changes, like stress management, plenty of nutrition-rich foods, and a proper sleep schedule. Kindly follow up for any further queries.

I request you to kindly share your laboratory reports so that I can give you better clarity about your disease progression.

I hope this helps.

Kindly follow up if you have more concerns.

Thank you.