If your child has been diagnosed with nephrotic syndrome, know that while it requires ongoing management, most children do very well with treatment! Nephrotic syndrome causes the kidneys to leak too much protein into urine, leading to swelling (soojan). The good news: about 80-90% of children respond well to steroid treatment, and many outgrow the condition by their teenage years.
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In Simple Terms:
Key Facts:
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Who gets it? | More common in boys, ages 2-6 |
| How common? | 2-7 per 100,000 children |
| Is it curable? | Often goes into remission, may recur |
| Is it dangerous? | Manageable with treatment |
Classic Symptoms:
Other Signs:
How Parents Usually Notice:
Primary Causes (Most Common):
| Type | Description | Outlook |
|---|---|---|
| Minimal Change Disease | 75-85% of childhood cases | Usually responds well |
| FSGS | Scarring in kidney filters | Variable response |
| Membranous | Rare in children | Variable |
Often Unknown:
Steroid Therapy (Main Treatment):
Response Categories:
| Category | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Steroid Sensitive | Responds well to steroids (80-90%) |
| Steroid Dependent | Needs steroids to stay in remission |
| Steroid Resistant | Doesn't respond to steroids |
| Frequent Relapser | 2+ relapses in 6 months |
Other Treatments:
Low Salt (Kam Namak):
Low-Salt Indian Cooking Tips:
Protein and Fluids:
Track Daily:
Keep a Diary:
Contact doctor immediately if:
Schedule appointment if:
Common Side Effects:
| Effect | Management |
|---|---|
| Increased appetite | Healthy food choices, avoid junk |
| Moon face | Temporary, resolves after stopping |
| Mood changes | Be patient, inform if severe |
| Sleep issues | Give medicine in morning |
| Weight gain | Monitor, healthy diet |
| Infection risk | Avoid sick contacts, hygiene |
Important Notes:
Avoid Triggers:
Healthy Habits:
Warning Signs of Relapse:
Good News:
What to Expect:
As a Parent:
Support Your Child:
A: Morning puffiness around eyes (especially if it reduces during the day) CAN be a sign of nephrotic syndrome, but it can also be due to allergies, lack of sleep, or other causes. If you also notice: swelling in feet/legs, foamy urine, or less urination - get a urine test done immediately. A simple urine protein test can help detect nephrotic syndrome early.
A: We understand the concern! Steroids do have side effects, but they're the most effective treatment for nephrotic syndrome. Side effects like increased appetite, moon face, and mood changes are temporary and resolve after treatment ends. The risk of not treating (infections, blood clots, kidney damage) is much greater. Follow your doctor's dosing - they balance effectiveness with minimizing side effects.
A: During active disease: follow a low-salt diet (avoid namak, papad, pickle, chips, processed foods). Cook fresh food with minimal salt. Protein should be normal (don't restrict it). Fluids only as advised by doctor. When in remission, diet can be more relaxed, but maintaining lower salt is still helpful. Your nephrologist will give specific guidance.
A: In most children with steroid-sensitive nephrotic syndrome (the majority), kidney function remains normal! The most common type (Minimal Change Disease) doesn't cause permanent kidney damage. Even children with frequent relapses usually maintain good kidney function. Regular follow-up helps catch and address any issues early.
A: Don't panic - relapses are common and expected in nephrotic syndrome! Contact your doctor when you notice early signs (puffy eyes, weight gain, protein in urine). Treatment usually involves restarting or increasing steroids. Early treatment of relapse leads to quick response. Keep monitoring, follow your doctor's plan, and know that relapses can be managed.
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This article was reviewed by a pediatrician. Last updated: January 2025
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