What are the treatments for the disease?

A person with analgesic nephropathy is advised to stop using pain medicines. If the condition is caught early, this may be the only treatment that is needed. If kidney failure is present, the person will need either dialysis or a kidney transplant. The person may also need treatment for high blood pressure.

What are the side effects of the treatments?

Dialysis has many side effects, including infection, salt imbalances, and even death. Surgery can cause bleeding, infection, or allergic reaction to anesthesia.

After a kidney transplant, a person must take powerful medicines to prevent the body from rejecting the new kidney. These medicines increase the person's risk of infections. They may damage the new kidney and cause other side effects. Blood pressure medicines may cause fatigue, lightheadedness, and erectile dysfunction.

What happens after treatment for the disease?

Those with only mild kidney damage who stop using pain medicines may be able to lead a normal life. Those with kidney failure usually need treatment for the rest of their lives.

How is the disease monitored?

Kidney function is usually monitored with regular blood and urine tests. Any new or worsening symptoms should be reported to the healthcare provider.