Studies conducted on children have revealed that HMPV can damage the kidneys. If so, then we all need to be more careful now. Now the question is, can HMPV actually increase kidney disease?
Human metapneumovirus (HMPV), a respiratory virus, was first identified in 2001. Once again it has emerged as a threat. Its cases are increasing in India. Its cases have been reported in Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Ahmedabad. Although most children are at greater risk, it is a matter of relief that this is not a new virus. HMPV has been spreading around the world for several years. HMPV can infect all age groups, including children, and it can be transmitted from person to person. Therefore, it is extremely important to take precautions to limit its spread.
At the same time, studies conducted on children have revealed that HMPV can damage the kidneys. If so, then we all need to be more careful now. Now the question is, can HMPV actually increase kidney disease? Today we will answer this question (HMPV linked with kidney disease).
What is Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV)?
Human metapneumovirus (HMPV) is a common respiratory virus that can cause upper and lower respiratory infections (such as colds). It is a seasonal disease, which usually spreads in winter. It is similar to respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and flu. This virus can spread from one person to another, so it is very important to take precautions to prevent it from spreading on a large scale.
Now know what are the symptoms of HMPV (Symptoms of HMPV)
When HMPV is infected, symptoms like fever, sore throat, runny nose, blocked nose, cough, body ache etc. are seen. Young children and the elderly are more susceptible to HMPV infection due to weak immunity. In some cases, they may also suffer serious complications like pneumonia. Complications associated with this infection may require hospitalization. Therefore, be alert and keep yourself healthy.
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Can HMPV affect the kidneys (HMPV linked with kidney disease)?
A recent research has revealed a relationship between HMPV and kidney health. A study conducted in hospitalized children found that HMPV infection may be associated with acute kidney injury (AKI). Research shows that the risk of AKI increases with age and that kidney injury is not significantly associated with respiratory complications.
Can HMPV cause acute kidney injury?
The virus can cause acute kidney injury (AKI) in some patients. There is an association between HMPV infection and kidney problems, primarily acute kidney disease (AKI). A study conducted in hospitalized children in the United States of America suggested that HMPV infection may increase the risk of AKI.
This study lends credence to the possible link between HMPV infection and kidney disease, but some further studies are needed to clarify this link (HMPV linked with kidney disease).
Hypoxia can impair blood flow in the kidneys
The virus may indirectly affect kidney function through complications such as systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS), leading to multi-organ dysfunction and acute kidney injury (AKI). Severe respiratory infections caused by HMPV can also result in hypoxia, where low oxygen levels impair renal blood flow, affecting kidney function.
Dehydration due to high fever, vomiting, or reduced eating and drinking during illness can lead to reduced kidney perfusion, potentially leading to prerenal AKI.
These signs can be seen in kidney problems with HMPV
If HMPV affects the kidneys, patients may show symptoms of kidney dysfunction. Symptoms include decreased urine volume, swelling of the legs or face, fatigue, confusion. When kidneys are affected, increased levels of creatinine or urea are seen in the blood test.
How to detect kidney disease caused by HMPV
If the HMPV virus affects the kidneys, the person will experience a decreased amount of urine, swelling of the face, and swelling of the legs. It is important to get simple blood and iron tests like serum creatinine, blood urea and complete urine examination to detect kidney problems in people infected with HMPV. This will help you to check the condition of your kidneys.
Also read: The effect of this virus lasts only for three to four days, know why HMPV tests were not being done till now
