B### Symptoms
- Hematuria (blood in the urine), which may appear as pink or cola-colored urine.
- Proteinuria (protein in the urine), which may cause urine to appear foamy.
- High blood pressure.
- Swelling (edema) in the hands and feet.
- Pain in the sides (flank pain).
### Diagnosis
IgA nephropathy is typically diagnosed through a combination of urine tests, blood tests, and kidney biopsy:
- **Urine tests** can reveal blood and protein in the urine.
- **Blood tests** can assess kidney function by measuring levels of creatinine and urea nitrogen.
- **Kidney biopsy** involves taking a small sample of kidney tissue to examine under a microscope for IgA deposits.
### Treatment
There is no cure for IgA nephropathy, but treatment focuses on managing symptoms and slowing the progression of the disease. Treatment options may include:
- **Medications**: Blood pressure medications (such as ACE inhibitors or ARBs), corticosteroids, and immunosuppressants can help manage symptoms and protect kidney function.
- **Diet and lifestyle changes**: Reducing salt intake, maintaining a healthy weight, and managing blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
- **Dialysis**: In advanced cases where the kidneys fail, dialysis may be necessary to filter waste from the blood.
- **Kidney transplant**: For those with end-stage kidney disease, a kidney transplant may be considered.
### Prognosis
The prognosis for IgA nephropathy varies. Some people may experience only mild symptoms and maintain normal kidney function for many years. In others, the disease may progress to chronic kidney disease and potentially end-stage kidney failure, requiring dialysis or transplantation. Regular monitoring and early intervention can help manage the disease and improve outcomes.
Overall, IgA nephropathy is a chronic condition that requires ongoing medical attention and management to maintain kidney health and overall well-being.