Kidneys and Nephrotic Syndrome in Grand Rapids, Michigan

Each kidney contains up to one million tiny filtering units called nephrons. Inside each nephron is a cluster of small blood vessels called the glomerulus.

The glomerulus works like a sieve, filtering your blood so that waste products and extra fluid are removed and leave the body in your urine. Healthy kidneys keep important proteins, like albumin, in your bloodstream.

In conditions like nephritis and nephrotic syndrome, this filtering system becomes damaged.

What Is Nephrotic Syndrome?

Nephrotic syndrome is a kidney disorder where the glomeruli become damaged and start leaking large amounts of protein (especially albumin) into the urine. This protein loss is called albuminuria.

When protein levels in the blood drop too low:

  • Fluid leaks out of tiny blood vessels (capillaries)
  • Fluid collects in the surrounding tissues
  • This causes swelling (edema) in different parts of the body

In Grand Rapids, nephrotic syndrome is diagnosed and treated by kidney specialists (nephrologists) at major health systems such as:

  • Corewell Health (formerly Spectrum Health) in Grand Rapids
  • Trinity Health Grand Rapids
  • Metro Health – University of Michigan Health
  • Mercy Health and affiliated clinics in West Michigan

Nephritis refers to inflammation of the kidneys, often affecting the glomeruli. It can damage the filtering system and may lead to nephrotic syndrome.

Nephritis can range from:

  • Mild and temporary, with little long-term damage
    to
  • Severe and long-lasting, potentially leading to chronic kidney disease or kidney failure

Some forms of nephritis seem mild at first but later cause:

  • High blood pressure (hypertension)
  • Gradual loss of kidney function

This is especially important in Michigan, where high blood pressure and diabetes are common risk factors for kidney disease.

Acute vs Chronic Nephritis

Acute Nephritis

Acute nephritis develops suddenly, often after an infection such as:

  • A throat infection (like strep throat)
  • A skin infection

These infections may need treatment with antibiotics. Sometimes, an acute episode of nephritis can lead to chronic nephritis years later if not fully resolved.

Chronic Nephritis

Chronic nephritis develops slowly over several years and may cause:

  • Gradual scarring of the kidneys
  • Progressive loss of kidney function
  • Eventual kidney failure if not treated

People in Grand Rapids may not notice symptoms early on, which is why regular checkups and blood pressure control are important—especially during winter months when physical activity may decrease and blood pressure can rise.

Causes of Nephrotic Syndrome

Nephrotic syndrome can be primary (starting in the kidney) or secondary (caused by another disease).

Primary Kidney Causes

  1. Minimal Change Disease (MCD)

    • Most common cause of nephrotic syndrome in children
    • Called “minimal change” because the kidney filters look nearly normal under a regular microscope
    • Thought to be related to changes in certain immune system cells
    • Kidney function is usually normal
    • Outlook for recovery is generally excellent with proper treatment

  2. Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis (FSGS)

    • Localized scarring (sclerosis) of some glomeruli
    • Can be more serious and may lead to long-term kidney damage

  3. Membranous Nephropathy

    • Thickening and damage of the filtering membranes
    • Can cause significant protein loss in the urine

Secondary Causes

Other health conditions can lead to secondary nephrotic syndrome, including:

  • Diabetes (a major cause of kidney disease in Michigan)
  • Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and other autoimmune diseases
  • Certain drugs or medications
  • Some cancers

Because diabetes and high blood pressure are common in West Michigan, residents of Grand Rapids should have regular kidney checks, especially if they have these conditions.

Symptoms of Nephrotic Syndrome

Common symptoms include:

  • Foamy or frothy urine (from excess protein)
  • Edema (swelling), especially:
    • Around the eyes
    • In the legs and ankles
    • In the abdomen (belly area)
  • Unexplained weight gain from fluid retention, or sometimes weight loss from muscle wasting
  • General malaise (feeling unwell)
  • Stomach pain
  • Loss of appetite
  • Fatigue or low energy
  • Muscle wasting over time

In colder Grand Rapids winters, swelling in the legs and reduced activity can be mistaken for circulation problems or weight changes, so it is important to mention these symptoms to your doctor.

Complications of Nephrotic Syndrome

Without proper treatment, nephrotic syndrome can lead to serious complications:

  • Dehydration
  • Blood clots
    • May form in leg veins
    • Occasionally in kidney veins
    • Clots can travel to the lungs (pulmonary embolism), causing:
      • Chest pain
      • Shortness of breath
      • Coughing up blood
  • Infections
    • Including peritonitis, an infection and inflammation of the lining of the abdomen (peritoneum)
    • Fever may be a sign of infection
  • Anaemia (low red blood cell count)
  • High blood pressure
  • Kidney failure
    • In severe, untreated cases, the kidneys may fail and dialysis or a transplant may be needed

If you notice symptoms like sudden swelling, shortness of breath, or chest pain in Grand Rapids, you should seek urgent care at facilities such as Corewell Health Butterworth Hospital or Trinity Health Grand Rapids.

How Nephrotic Syndrome Is Diagnosed in Grand Rapids

Diagnosing nephrotic syndrome involves several tests, commonly available through:

  • Primary care clinics across Grand Rapids
  • Hospital systems like Corewell Health, Metro Health, and Trinity Health Grand Rapids

Urine Tests

  • Urinalysis
    • Checks for protein, blood, and other abnormalities
  • Albumin/Creatinine Ratio (ACR)
    • Measures how much albumin is in your urine compared to creatinine
    • Helps estimate the severity of protein loss

Excessive protein can make urine look foamy or frothy.

Blood Tests

  • Measure:
    • Kidney function (creatinine, BUN)
    • Estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) – how well your kidneys are filtering
    • Albumin and other blood proteins
    • Cholesterol and other markers of overall health

Imaging Tests

  • Ultrasound
    • A device is moved over the skin
    • Uses sound waves to create images of the kidneys and bladder
  • CT Scan or MRI
    • Provide detailed pictures of the kidneys and surrounding structures

Kidney Biopsy

Sometimes, further testing is needed:

  • A needle biopsy may be done
  • A small piece of kidney tissue is removed and examined under a microscope
  • Helps determine the exact type of nephritis or nephrotic syndrome
  • Guides treatment decisions

Kidney biopsies are typically performed at larger medical centers in Grand Rapids, such as Corewell Health or Trinity Health Grand Rapids.

Treatment for Nephrotic Syndrome

Treatment depends on the underlying cause and severity. In Grand Rapids, nephrotic syndrome is usually managed by a nephrologist in collaboration with your primary care provider.

Medications

Common treatments may include:

  • Blood pressure medications
    • ACE inhibitors or ARBs to:
      • Lower blood pressure
      • Reduce protein loss in the urine
      • Protect kidney function
  • Diuretics (“water pills”)
    • Help remove excess fluid
    • Reduce swelling in legs, abdomen, and around the eyes
  • Steroids or other immune-suppressing medications
    • Especially for conditions like minimal change disease, FSGS, or lupus-related nephritis
  • Cholesterol-lowering medications
    • Because nephrotic syndrome can raise cholesterol levels
  • Blood thinners
    • In some cases, to reduce the risk of blood clots
  • Antibiotics
    • If infections are present or to prevent certain infections

Dietary and Lifestyle Changes

Dietary changes are an important part of treatment:

  • Limit salt (sodium) to help control swelling and blood pressure
  • Moderate protein intake as advised by your nephrologist or dietitian
  • Maintain a healthy weight
  • Stay physically active year-round, even during cold Grand Rapids winters (indoor walking, home exercises, or local fitness centers)
  • Manage blood sugar carefully if you have diabetes

Local hospital systems and the Kent County Health Department can connect you with registered dietitians who specialize in kidney-friendly nutrition.

Observation and Monitoring

Some types of nephritis and nephrotic syndrome:

  • Require close observation but no immediate treatment
  • Rarely lead to long-term kidney damage if monitored properly

Regular follow-up with your nephrologist is essential to:

  • Track kidney function (eGFR, creatinine)
  • Monitor urine protein
  • Adjust medications as needed

Advanced Treatments

For severe or progressive cases:

  • Dialysis may be needed if the kidneys fail
  • Kidney transplant may be considered in end-stage kidney disease

New treatments and clinical trials are ongoing, and some may be available through major health systems in Grand Rapids.

Local Kidney Care Resources in Grand Rapids, MI

If you live in Grand Rapids or West Michigan and are concerned about nephrotic syndrome or kidney health, you can:

  • See your primary care provider for initial urine and blood tests
  • Ask for a referral to a nephrologist at:
    • Corewell Health (Spectrum Health) Grand Rapids
    • Trinity Health Grand Rapids
    • Metro Health – University of Michigan Health
    • Other nephrology practices in the Grand Rapids area
  • Contact the Kent County Health Department or Grand Rapids Public Health for information on:
    • Chronic disease management programs
    • Blood pressure screenings
    • Diabetes education

Key Points About Nephrotic Syndrome and Nephritis

  • Nephrotic syndrome is usually caused by diseases that damage the kidneys’ filtering system (glomeruli).
  • Nephritis is inflammation of the kidneys that can lead to nephrotic syndrome or chronic kidney disease.
  • Treatment includes medications and dietary changes, often tailored to the specific cause.
  • Some types of nephritis seem mild at first but can later cause high blood pressure or become more serious.
  • Infections that trigger acute nephritis may need antibiotic treatment.
  • An acute attack of nephritis can sometimes lead to chronic nephritis years later.
  • Early diagnosis and ongoing care in Grand Rapids—through local hospitals, clinics, and public health resources—can greatly improve long-term kidney health.