The excretory system, which is also referred to as the urinary system, is the system responsible for regulating bodily fluids and the elimination of waste. The system is made up of the kidneys, the ureters, the bladder and the urethra. Excretory system diseases can affect one or all of these areas, and can be minor conditions or have the potential to cause serious future complications.
Interstitial Nephritis
Interstitial nephritis is a disease of the kidneys that is characterized by the inflammation of the spaces between the kidney tubules. The inflammation negatively affects the function of the kidneys and reduces their ability to filter waste. Acute forms of interstitial nephritis are common and usually occur as a result of allergic reaction to certain medications. The chronic form of interstitial nephritis is more serious and is more likely to lead to kidney failure or permanent kidney damage, according to MedlinePlus, a publication of the National Institutes of Health. Chronic interstitial nephritis is usually caused by long-term use of kidney damaging medications, such as aspirin or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs. Symptoms of interstitial nephritis include blood in the urine, fever, changes in urine output, nausea, vomiting, rash and body swelling. Treatment focuses on the underlying cause of the condition and usually involves discontinuation of medications that are causing nephritis and anti-inflammatory medications to reduce any swelling. A low salt, low protein diet is also recommended. If the condition has progressed to a severe stage, dialysis may be necessary, but usually only for a short period of time.
Nephrotic Syndrome
Nephrotic syndrome is a kidney disorder that is characterized by the excretion of excess protein in the urine. This is a result of damage to the small blood vessels in the kidneys that are responsible for filtering waste and water from the blood, according to the MayoClinic.com. When these blood vessels are damaged, protein can leak out of the blood. Nephrotic syndrome can occur as a result of a number of diseases that affect the kidneys, including diabetic kidney disease and heart failure. Symptoms of nephrotic syndrome include swelling that occurs mostly near the eyes, ankles and feet, weight gain and foamy urine. Treatment for nephrotic syndrome usually consists of a series of medications including blood pressure medications, diuretics, blood thinners, cholesterol-lowering medications, immune-suppressants and antibiotics. If left untreated, nephrotic syndrome can cause blood clots, high blood pressure, nutritional deficiencies and acute or chronic kidney failure.
Urinary Tract Infection
A urinary tract infection is a condition in which one or more parts of the excretory system become infected by bacteria. Most urinary tract infections are a result of bacteria that enter into the urethra and travel into the bladder. In rare cases, a urinary tract infection can be caused by bacteria that have spread to the kidney from the blood, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Symptoms of a urinary tract infection in the bladder include a frequent urge to urinate, burning sensation during urination, discomfort in the lower abdomen, pain in the pelvic area and blood in the urine. Signs that the infection has traveled to the kidneys include chills, fever, pain in the back, nausea and vomiting. Treatment for urinary tract infections consists a series of antibiotics in most cases. In severe cases, hospitalization with administration of intravenous antibiotics may be required.
