Analgesic Nephropathy

What is analgesic nephropathy?

Analgesic nephropathy is a chronic kidney disease that gradually leads to end-stage renal disease. It often results from taking painkillers every day for several years. The painkillers that combine two or more analgesics with caffeine or codeine are the most likely to damage the kidneys.

What are the symptoms of analgesic nephropathy?

The following are the most common symptoms of analgesic nephropathy:

• Fatigue Or Weakness
• Blood In The Urine
• An Increase In Urination Frequency Or Urgency
• Pain In The Back Or Flank Area (Where The Kidneys Are Located)
• A Decrease In Urine Output
• Decreased Alertness Such As Drowsiness, Confusion/Delirium, Or Lethargy
• Decreased Sensation Or Numbness, Especially In The Extremities
• Nausea, Vomiting
• Generalized Swelling
• Easy Bruising Or Bleeding

Treatment for analgesic nephropathy:

The main goal of treatment is to prevent further damage to kidneys and treat kidney failure. The doctor will first tell you to stop taking any kind of suspected painkillers and then suggest dietary changes as well as fluid restriction to treat kidney failure. At last, the patient may have to undergo dialysis or kidney transplant.