Consult Nephrologists Online - Kidney Specialists

Who is a Nephrology?

Nephrology is a medical speciality that focuses on the study, diagnosis, and treatment of kidney-related diseases. It is an essential field in the medical industry as the kidneys play a critical role in maintaining overall health.

Nephrologists are doctors who specialise in nephrology and are also referred to as kidney specialists or kidney doctors. They are trained to manage and treat various disorders related to the kidneys, such as kidney stones, chronic kidney disease, glomerulonephritis, acute kidney injury, hypertension, diabetes, and kidney damage caused by infections.

Who is a Nephrologist?

A nephrologist is a medical doctor who specialises in nephrology. To become a nephrologist, one must complete medical school and a residency in internal medicine. After the residency, they undergo specialised training in nephrology for two to three years. Nephrologists are experts in diagnosing and treating various kidney-related diseases, including hypertension, electrolyte disorders, and acid-base imbalances.

Nephrology doctors are also trained to manage patients with hypertension and diabetes, which are two significant risk factors for kidney disease. They work closely with patients' primary care doctors and other specialists to provide comprehensive care for patients with kidney-related health issues.

When Should You Consult a Nephrologist?

If you have any symptoms or conditions related to your kidneys or urinary system, you should consult a kidney specialist. These symptoms may include blood in the urine, swelling in the legs or ankles, frequent urination, or changes in urine colour or odour. Additionally, if you have a family history of kidney diseases or have been diagnosed with hypertension or diabetes, it is recommended to consult a kidney doctor for regular check-ups.

What Medical Conditions Do Nephrologists Treat?

Nephrologists treat a wide range of medical conditions related to the kidneys. Some of the common conditions include:

• Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD): CKD is a long-term condition that affects the functioning of the kidneys. It can be caused by various factors such as diabetes, hypertension, or glomerulonephritis.
• End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD): ESRD is an advanced stage of chronic kidney disease where the kidneys have failed completely. In this condition, dialysis or a kidney transplant may be needed.
• Kidney Stones: These are hard deposits of minerals that form in the kidneys and can cause severe pain and discomfort while passing.
• Glomerulonephritis: This is a group of diseases that affect the glomeruli, which are tiny filters in the kidneys. It can cause inflammation and damage to the kidney tissues.
• Acute Kidney Injury (AKI): AKI is a sudden loss of kidney function that can occur due to various factors like dehydration, medication toxicity or infections.
• Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD): A genetic disorder that causes fluid-filled cysts to form in the kidneys, leading to reduced kidney function and eventually kidney failure.

What Are the Different Types of Procedures Conducted by Nephrologists?

Kidney specialists or nephrologists perform a variety of procedures to diagnose and treat kidney-related disorders. Some common procedures include:

• Biopsy: Kidney biopsy is a procedure where a small sample of kidney tissue is removed and examined under a microscope to diagnose the cause of kidney disease.
• Dialysis: Dialysis is a procedure used to remove waste products from the blood when the kidneys are unable to perform their function. It can be done through haemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis.
• Kidney Transplantation: Kidney transplantation is a surgical procedure where a healthy kidney from a donor is transplanted into the patient's body to replace a damaged or failed kidney.
• Plasmapheresis: A treatment that removes harmful antibodies from the blood and replaces them with healthy ones. This is commonly used to treat certain autoimmune diseases that affect the kidneys.

How Can I Consult a Nephrologist?

To consult a nephrologist, you need to get a referral from your primary care doctor or specialist. You can also find an experienced nephrologist online on Apollo 24/7 app and website. During your first visit, the nephrologist will perform a physical examination, review your medical history, and conduct some tests like blood and urine tests to diagnose your condition. At Apollo 24|7, we have skilled nephrologists who specialise in treating kidney-related issues. Book an online consultation with the best nephrologists in India to ensure healthy kidneys today.

The Role of Nephrologists in Healthcare

Nephrologists play a vital role in healthcare by managing and treating various kidney-related disorders. They work closely with other medical specialists like primary care doctors, urologists, and transplant surgeons to provide comprehensive care to patients with kidney diseases. Nephrologists also educate patients on how to manage their condition through lifestyle changes, dietary modifications, and medication management. With their expertise in the field of nephrology, nephrologists provide necessary care and support to improve the quality of life of patients with kidney diseases.

By identifying and treating kidney disease early, nephrology doctors can help prevent further damage and improve patients' overall health outcomes. If you are experiencing symptoms of kidney disease or have been diagnosed with a kidney condition, it is essential to consult a nephrologist to receive a proper diagnosis and treatment.