Nephrology

Kidney disease / Renal medicine

A nephrologist generally sees patients who are referred by their primary care physicians or general physicians for problems related to the kidneys, high blood pressure or certain types of metabolic disorders. If someone feels they are having problems with their kidneys, they can seek out the care of a nephrologist.

A nephrologist is a medical doctor who specializes in kidney care and treating diseases of the kidneys. The term nephrologist comes from the Greek word “nephros”, which means kidney or renal and “ologist” refers to someone who studies. Nephrologists are also called kidney doctors. Nephrologists are educated in internal medicine and then undergo more training to specialize in treating patients with kidney diseases. They commonly treat chronic kidney disease (CKD), polycystic kidney disease (PKD), acute renal failure, kidney stones and high blood pressure and are educated on all aspects of kidney transplantation and dialysis.

A nephrologist treats disorders of the kidney, both chronic and acute, disorders of high blood pressure, fluid, electrolyte and mineral balance, and manages complications of kidney failure necessitating dialysis (removal of fluid and body wastes) when the kidneys do not function. This specialist consults with surgeons about vascular and peritoneal cavity access for dialysis as well as kidney transplantation.

When does the nephrologists second opinion makes sense?

1. The nephrologists' second opinion makes sense when your doctor doesn’t have the required specialist knowledge for your condition.
2. The nephrologists' second opinion makes sense when various doctors have given you different recommendations and you need help making a decision.
3. The nephrologists' second opinion makes sense when you haven’t received a clear diagnosis or therapy recommendation.
4. The nephrologists' second opinion makes sense when your doctor has recommended a major operation and you want to make sure that it’s the best way to help you.
5. The nephrologists' second opinion makes sense when you feel that you haven’t been given enough information about your planned treatment.
6. The nephrologists' second opinion makes sense when the suggested treatment promises no significant improvement to your condition.
7. The nephrologists' second opinion makes sense when you want to find out if there are other treatment options you can pursue.