The Symptoms of IgA Nephropathy in Children

IgA Nephropathy (Berger’s disease) can affect people of all ages. Compared with other age groups, children, especially those from Asia and white children, are prone to this disease. The pathological factors are various and the manifestations are also different. But generally, their common presentations include hematuria, proteinuria, fatigue, abdominal pain, pruritis, etc.

The first symptom for IgA Nephropathy in children is hematuria. Children usually present hematuria after an upper respiratory infection. This can either be in small amounts (microhematuria) or large amounts (macrohematuria). Gross hematuria can be detected when children have smoky or cloudy urine, which is darker than normal due to the red blood cells in the urine. There might be a strong smell with the dark urine.

The second symptom for IgA Nephropathy in children is proteinuria. Proteinuria and hematuria are the two most common symptoms of IgA Nephropathy. The kidneys usually filter out protein from the urine, but the disease damaged the kidney and prevents it from performing this function. If the child’s urine is more foamy or bubbly than normal, he may suffer from proteinuria. A urinalysis test should be done if he has repeated and persistent bubbles in urine.

The third symptom for IgA Nephropathy in children is fatigue. It is one of the most common symptoms affecting children with IgA Nephropathy. Sometime the fatigue is related to a sore throat, headache or slight fever. The fatigue can be so serious that the child has difficulty doing schoolwork.

The fourth symptom for IgA Nephropathy in children is abdominal pain. Children with Berger’s disease often suffer from abdominal pain, which can be in the middle of the abdomen or localize to the right lower quadrant.

The fifth symptom for IgA Nephropathy in children is pruritis. Children can develop hives along with the pruritis or itchiness, which is caused by deposition of IgA in the skin of the child.

Last but not least, as long as the child is diagnosed with IgA Nephropathy, he should go to hospital and receive effective treatment. The earlier, the better.

• The Symptoms of IgA Nephropathy in Children
• Early Signs and Symptoms of IgA That You Should Know
• What Is the Meaning of Hematuria?
• Why Will IgA Nephropathy Patients Have Edema
• The Early Symptoms of IgA Nephritis