A classic sign of acute glomerulonephritis on initial assessment includes:

• A. Generalized edema, especially of the face and periorbital area
• B. Severe headache without edema
• C. No edema and normal urine
• D. Weight loss and dehydration

Answer: (A)

Edema from impaired kidney function is a key feature of acute glomerulonephritis. When the glomeruli are inflamed, the kidneys can’t efficiently excrete sodium and water, leading to fluid retention. This often shows up early as generalized swelling, with the periorbital area (around the eyes) becoming notably puffy. That facial edema is a classic clue on initial assessment and helps distinguish nephritic processes from other conditions. While hypertension and reduced urine output can accompany acute glomerulonephritis, and urine may appear cola-colored due to hematuria, the presence of edema—especially around the eyes—is the most characteristic early sign. The other descriptions—headache without edema, no edema with normal urine, or weight loss and dehydration—don't fit the typical nephritic picture, which centers on fluid retention and edema rather than volume depletion.