Nephrotic Syndrome
A kidney condition where large amounts of protein leak into the urine, causing swelling, especially around the eyes and legs.
Quick Summary
Swelling around the eyes, ankles and tummy, foamy urine, weight gain from fluid and tiredness.
Steroids and other immune medicines, diuretics for swelling, and treating the underlying cause.
Children (often minimal change disease), diabetes, some infections, lupus and certain medicines.
Overview
The kidneys' filters become leaky, so protein is lost in the urine and fluid builds up in the body.
In children it often responds well to steroids but can come back. In adults, a kidney biopsy may be needed to find the cause.
Symptoms
Puffy eyes
Especially in the morning.
Swollen legs
And tummy.
Foamy urine
From protein.
Tiredness
And loss of appetite.
Causes & Risk Factors
Biological Causes
Damage to the glomeruli, the kidney's filters, from immune or other diseases.
Key Risk Factors
- Childhood Minimal change disease in young children.
- Diabetes Diabetic kidney disease in adults.
- Other diseases Lupus, infections and some medicines.
Management & Treatment
01. Steroids
Prednisolone is the main treatment in children.
02. Other medicines
Diuretics, blood pressure medicines and immune treatments.
03. Diet
Less salt to reduce swelling.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will my child grow out of it?
How is it diagnosed?
Sources and further reading
Last updated 21 October 2026. For more detail, see these trusted health organisations.