How to Treat Berger's Disease

Immunoglobin A nephropathy, more commonly referred to as Berger's disease, is a disorder affecting the kidney's that interferes with the body's urine making processes. While the causes of the disease are still unknown, it most frequently exhibits itself through the symptoms of bloody and protein rich urine. To learn more about the symptoms of Berger's disease click here. Although no cure for the disease is currently known, upon recognizing its symptoms, a number of steps can be taken to slow the disorder's progress.

Berger's disease can often cause high blood pressure, so treatment of the disease often begins with combating this symptom. The most common medication used in these situations is a drug called an angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor. These ACE inhibitors work by slowing down the production of enzymes that cause blood vessels to constrict, thus increasing blood pressure. In addition to reducing blood pressure, ACE inhibitors also fight another harmful symptom of Berger's disease, high levels of protein in urine. Treatment through corticosteroids like prednisone may also be used (alone or in conjunction with other medications) to treat these effects of the disease. The ability of these drugs to aid the body in the process of breaking down protein within the kidneys makes them a valuable tool for combating the effects of the disorder.

In addition to medication, change can be made in a patient's diet to provide treatment and slow the progression of Berger's disease. A first step in making positive diet changes may be to reduce one's levels of sodium and protein intake. Additionally, choosing foods that are high in levels of Omega 3 fatty acids can be a beneficial step for Berger's sufferers, as they help to reduce the inflammation that can often be brought about in affected areas. Finally, diets rich in vitamin E have been shown to help reduce the amount of protein that is expelled in urine.

Administration of ACE inhibitors and corticosteroids for treatment of Berger's disease, as well as any significant changes to eating habits, may have a wide range of side effects that occur differently in different individuals. The most common include cough, a sudden increase in blood potassium levels, nose and throat infections, and vision problems. The use of these treatments should never be undertaken before consulting a medical professional and assessing their potential side effects.

These treatments, with the guidance of a medical professional, can help slow the progress and curb the symptoms of Berger's disease and Immunoglobin A nephropathy. If action is not taken to fight the disease, conditions can worsen dramatically and patients may require serious medical procedures such as dialysis or kidney transplants.