Nephrotic Syndrome: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment for Kidney Protein Loss

March 27, 2026

Nephrotic Syndrome: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment for Kidney Protein Loss

Verified By
KIMS-SUNSHINE
Specialist,
27 March, 2026

Nephrotic syndrome is a chronic condition that affects how the kidneys filter blood. The kidneys have specialized filtration units in them- called the glomeruli. In ideal circumstances, these glomeruli filter out wastes and retain necessary protein and ions. But, when they don’t work well, too much protein is lost. If you notice changes in urine appearance and odour, edema due to kidney disease, are tired or don’t feel well overall, it is best to consult an experienced kidney specialist at KIMS Sunshine Hospital.

Nephrotic Syndrome Causes

Conditions that can damage the kidney can greatly increase your risk of suffering from nephrotic syndrome. This is because the glomeruli will begin to function abnormally- due to autoimmune conditions, diabetic nephropathy, focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS)- a condition where extensive inflammation leads to scar tissue formation in the kidneys or related conditions.

Nephrotic Syndrome Symptoms

These are the most common symptoms of nephrotic kidney syndrome-

Foamy urine
Albuminuria– where there are large amounts of albumin protein in urine. This protein loss is a characteristic feature of this condition and can lead to low albumin levels in blood.
You may notice swelling of extremities and face – as there is edema due to kidney disease.
You may feel nauseous or have a poor appetite.
You may have abdominal pain that may be moderate or severe.
You may not feel well.

Foamy urine, fluid retention and swelling of legs may point to kidney disease.

Call a nephrologist at KIMS Sunshine Hospital today!

Nephrotic Syndrome Diagnosis

These are the tests that are normally done-

Urinalysis – The first test that is done. They will check for certain visual, chemical and cellular aspects of urine.
Urine protein test – A specific one where they either take one sample of urine or collect multiple samples over 24 hours (around 3-4) and then check for amounts of protein in it. The albumin to creatine ratio will tell the doctor how your kidney is functioning. If there is more than 30g of albumin for every gram of creatine, then further testing is warranted.
Blood tests- Low albumin levels in blood may indicate kidney related issues. They will also check for blood cholesterol and triglyceride levels – since they increase when albumin levels are low.
Kidney Biopsy- A piece of kidney tissue is taken using a needle, after you have been lightly sedated using local anaesthesia. This test is not done often, as urine and blood tests are pretty helpful in diagnosing nephrotic syndrome right away.

Nephrotic Syndrome Treatment

Since nephrotic syndrome is a kidney filtration problem, treatments aim to slow down the quick progression of the disease. It is a chronic condition with no permanent cure. So, medications like –

ACE inhibitors or ARBs are given- they help the glomeruli work better by decreasing blood pressure in them.
A diuretic is also useful- it can help in reducing fluid in the body and reduce pressure on the kidney.
Beta-blockers and calcium channel blockers are also crucial in management.
Statins are prescribed if your cholesterol levels are high.
Anticoagulants can help by preventing blood clot formation and keep blood flowing freely.

Making changes to your diet- by eating low sodium and low fat foods and drinking plenty of fluids is also very helpful in maintaining kidney function in the long term.

Conclusion

Nephrotic syndrome is a chronic condition and if it is not diagnosed and treated in time, it can lead to complications like kidney disease, anemia, coronary artery disease, hypertension or hypothyroidism. When the kidneys don’t work fine, the heart gets affected and vice versa. This is why managing symptoms becomes very crucial, as other organ systems also begin to get affected, slowly but surely. If you have foamy urine, feel overly tired or have abdominal pain, then get in touch with us at KIMS Sunshine Hospital, as we are the best nephrology hospital in Hyderabad.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is nephrotic syndrome?

Nephrotic syndrome is a kidney disorder in which damage to the glomeruli causes excessive protein loss in the urine. This reduces protein levels in the blood and disrupts fluid balance. The condition is identified by proteinuria, low blood albumin, swelling, and elevated cholesterol levels, and may result from primary kidney disease or systemic conditions.

Why does swelling occur in nephrotic syndrome?

Swelling occurs because protein loss in the urine lowers blood albumin levels, reducing the blood’s ability to retain fluid. This causes fluid to move into surrounding tissues, leading to edema. The kidneys also retain sodium and water, which further increases fluid accumulation in areas such as the legs, ankles, and around the eyes.

What treatments are available for nephrotic syndrome?

Treatment includes corticosteroids or immunosuppressants to control the underlying cause, along with diuretics to reduce swelling. ACE inhibitors or ARBs help lower protein loss in urine, while statins may manage high cholesterol. Dietary changes, including reduced salt intake, support fluid control. Treatment plans are adjusted based on cause, severity, and patient response.

Is nephrotic syndrome a chronic condition?

Nephrotic syndrome can be chronic, especially when linked to ongoing kidney diseases such as focal segmental glomerulosclerosis or diabetic nephropathy. Some cases respond to treatment and enter remission, while others relapse or progress over time. Long-term monitoring is required to manage complications, preserve kidney function, and reduce the risk of progression to chronic kidney disease.

When should someone see a doctor for nephrotic syndrome?

Medical evaluation is necessary if symptoms such as persistent swelling, foamy urine, rapid weight gain from fluid retention, or reduced urine output appear. Early diagnosis allows prompt treatment to limit kidney damage and complications. Immediate care is required if swelling worsens quickly, breathing becomes difficult, or signs of infection or blood clots develop.