Children are delicate beings their health and wellness is of utmost importance. Unawareness about certain diseases and their risks can be dangerous for their health. Kidney diseases can affect children as well in this case it is called pediatric kidney disease. Diseases and reasons that can lead to pediatric kidney diseases are different from those of adult kidney disease. Here we are enlisting important causes and some other information that everybody should know to stay safe.
Causes of Pediatric Kidney Disease:
Some of the most important causes of pediatric kidney disease are listed below:
- Genetic disorders
- Trauma
- Nephrotic syndrome
- Infections
- Birth defects
- Bloodborne diseases
- Blockage and reflux of urine
Symptoms of Pediatric Kidney Disease:
Kidney problems often go unnoticed because of the lack of symptoms. Especially in children classical symptoms like swelling increased blood pressure and hematuria are not seen initially. Some of the symptoms that appear when a child is affected with kidney disease are here:
- Flu-like symptoms.
- Growth retardation.
- Poor concentration and decreased performance in school.
- Reduced appetite.
- Changes in the color of urine.
- Foamy urine.
- Changes in the frequency of urination.
- Headaches.
Looking at these symptoms it is easy to understand that these can go unnoticed and often not related to kidney disease. As a parent staying aware of your kid’s health and being connected with them is of utmost importance.
Caring for Children with Kidney Problems:
Children with kidney problems are affected in many ways. They may have problems in relationships with other family members due to stress. They also develop a lack of concentration and may perform poorly at school. It is important to help the child in all these areas and any other he is facing. Educating the kid and the family can resolve many issues and lead to a better quality of life of an affected child.
Following are some helpful hints for management and caring for a child with pediatric kidney disease:
- Remain in contact with a pediatric nephrologist and a child specialist as well.
- Talk to your child about his diseases and educate him well.
- Develop a fun way to remind him of his medications. A colorful calendar, a text message or a fun codeword can be helpful and will not stress and irritate the child.
- Know what your child is ambitious about and give him enough exposure to that very field.
Keep your child motivated. If you find him overly stressed book an appointment with a good psychologist. You are his best friend, mentor, and confidante. Make most of the trust and believe your child has on you. You can help him get through this and win at life no matter what.
