HCV Glomerulonephritis: What It Is and How to Manage It
If you have hepatitis C, you might have heard the term “glomerulonephritis” and wondered what it means for your kidneys. In simple terms, HCV glomerulonephritis is an inflammation of the tiny filters (glomeruli) inside your kidneys that happens because of the hepatitis C virus. The virus triggers an immune response that can damage these filters, leading to protein loss, blood in the urine, and eventually reduced kidney function if left untreated.
Symptoms and When to Seek Help
Most people with HCV glomerulonephritis notice changes in their urine first. Look for frothy or foamy urine, which signals protein leakage, or a reddish tint that points to blood. Swelling in the ankles, feet, or around the eyes is another common clue because your body starts holding onto fluid. Fatigue, high blood pressure, and a sudden jump in weight can also pop up as the kidneys struggle to filter waste.
If you notice any of these signs, especially a new onset of swelling or dark urine, contact your doctor right away. Early detection makes it far easier to slow or stop kidney damage, and many patients feel better quickly once treatment starts.
Diagnosing and Treating HCV‑Related Kidney Disease
Doctors usually begin with a routine urinalysis to check for protein and blood. Blood tests will measure kidney function (creatinine and eGFR) and confirm active hepatitis C infection. A kidney biopsy may be recommended to pinpoint the exact type of glomerulonephritis, as there are several patterns linked to HCV.
The cornerstone of treatment is clearing the hepatitis C virus. Modern direct‑acting antivirals (DAAs) achieve cure rates above 95%, and getting rid of the virus often quiets the kidney inflammation. In addition to antiviral therapy, doctors may prescribe medications to control blood pressure—ACE inhibitors or ARBs are popular because they also reduce protein loss.
When the kidney damage is more severe, steroids or other immunosuppressants can help calm the immune attack. However, these drugs carry their own risks, so they’re used only when the benefits clearly outweigh the downsides. Lifestyle tweaks such as low‑salt meals, staying hydrated, and avoiding NSAIDs (like ibuprofen) also protect kidney health.
Follow‑up visits are essential. Your doctor will monitor urine protein, blood pressure, and kidney function every few months. If the antiviral cure is successful and kidney numbers improve, many patients can stop additional kidney‑specific drugs after a period of stability.
Living with HCV glomerulonephritis can feel overwhelming, but you have solid tools to manage it. Get tested, start antiviral treatment early, keep an eye on blood pressure, and stay in close touch with your healthcare team. With the right plan, you can protect your kidneys and enjoy a healthier life.
Georgea Michelle, Sep, 4 2025
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