The most obvious symptom is usually swelling of the ankles and legs. Extra fluid may also accumulate in the abdomen and around the face, especially overnight. In children and young adults the ankles may be less affected and the abdomen and face more affected. Urine tests and blood samples are required to prove the diagnosis of nephrotic syndrome. The protein leak can sometimes make the urine frothy.
Some people feel tired.
Lots of blood tests are useful. The most important test however is a renal biopsy. This test is designed to take a small piece of kidney to look at under the microscope. A scanner is used to find the kidney so the test is done in the X-ray department. Using local anaesthetic a needle is placed into the kidney through the back.