Nephrotic Syndrome

What Are the Symptoms of Nephrotic Syndrome?

Swelling is the most common symptom. You may notice:

• Puffiness around the eyes or face.
• Swelling in the ankles or feet.
• More swelling first thing in the morning.

How Is Nephrotic Syndrome Diagnosed?

To diagnose nephrotic syndrome, your child’s doctor or health care provider will do two tests to check protein levels in the body. Both tests are needed to confirm nephrotic syndrome, as there are a few reasons protein levels might be high or low in the body.

• Urine test – checks for high protein levels leaking into the pee.
• Blood test – checks for low levels of albumin (blood protein) in the body.

What Is the Treatment for Nephrotic Syndrome?

Most children outgrow nephrotic syndrome after the first (initial) treatment. If symptoms come back, more treatment may be needed. Your child will have regular follow-up visits with their doctor. Treatment is different for each child.

Medicines

• Prednisone – a steroid that helps stop protein leaking into the urine. (See page 3 for more information.)
• Lasix – helps remove extra fluid and lower (reduce) swelling.
• Pain medicine – give acetaminophen (Tylenol®) if your child has pain. Ask their doctor or health care provider how to give it and how much to give.
  • Do not give aspirin, ibuprofen (Motrin®), or any other NSAID medicine.

Diet and Daily Care

• Follow a low-salt diet to help prevent or reduce swelling.
• Weigh your child as directed and write (record) their weight.
• Check for swelling by looking for:
  • Puffiness around your child’s eyes in the mornings.
  • Swelling on the face, feet, or belly (abdomen) during the day.

Urine Protein Checks

Testing your child’s urine helps show if the condition has come back.

• Your doctor or health care provider will show you how to test the urine.
• If your child IS taking prednisone – check their urine each morning.
• If your child IS NOT taking prednisone – check their urine one time each week.
• Check urine right away if:
  • You see swelling.
  • Your child is sick.

Prednisone

Give your child the prednisone medicine as directed, each morning with food.

• Do NOT start or stop the prednisone on your own. Call your doctor or health care provider with any questions regarding your medicine.
• Common side effects are:
  • Increased hunger (appetite)
  • Weight gain
  • Mood changes, like irritability or mood swings
• Get this prescription refilled at least 7 days before the last dose is given. It is very important not to run out and suddenly stop this medicine.
  
  

When Should You Call the Doctor for Nephrotic Syndrome?

Call your child’s doctor or health care provider for any of the following:

• Urine protein is 2+ or higher for 2 or more days
• Urine protein is negative or trace for 3 days in a row while taking prednisone
• Shortness of breath
• New and sudden swelling or weight gain
• Belly pain
• A fever of 100.4 °F (38 °C) or higher
• Any side effects that are very bothersome

Expect your child to have regular follow-up appointments. If you have any questions or concerns, be sure to call and ask your doctor or healthcare provider.

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