Nephrology

Nephrology is the medical specialty that focuses on the health of the kidneys and how they filter blood, balance fluids, salts and waste products in the body. Nephrologists diagnose and treat kidney diseases and related problems such as high blood pressure and electrolyte imbalances.

What they do: Nephrologists evaluate reduced kidney function, investigate protein or blood in the urine, control blood pressure and fluid balance, manage patients with chronic kidney disease and kidney failure, plan and supervise dialysis, and advise on diet and medicines that are safe for the kidneys.

Common conditions treated: chronic kidney disease and kidney failure, sudden (acute) kidney injury, high blood pressure related to kidney disease, protein or blood in urine, swelling of legs and face due to fluid retention, electrolyte problems such as high or low potassium or sodium, kidney involvement in diabetes and other systemic diseases

When to visit: when blood or urine tests show reduced kidney function or abnormal creatinine, if there is persistent protein or blood in urine, when you have long-standing diabetes or hypertension with signs of kidney damage, repeated swelling of legs, face or around the eyes, difficult-to-control blood pressure despite medicines, preparation for dialysis or kidney transplant, or guidance on kidney-safe treatment when taking many medicines

Treatment methods: detailed history and examination including blood pressure and swelling, blood and urine tests to assess kidney function and electrolytes, ultrasound and other imaging of the kidneys when needed, adjusting medicines and doses to protect kidney function, prescribing medicines to control blood pressure, fluid and electrolytes, planning and supervising hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis, counselling on kidney-friendly diet, fluid intake and lifestyle changes, coordinating care with diabetologists, cardiologists and transplant surgeons