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What Is The Name Of A Kidney Doctor

Combined Kidney & Liver Transplant And Kidney Biopsy

Kidney Disease: What You Should Know | Anjay Rastogi, MD | UCLAMDChat

Combined kidney and liver transplantation are usually done in patients with cirrhosis and other kidney diseases associated with it.

During a kidney biopsy, the doctor will collect samples of the kidney to check them in great detail under special microscopes. It can be done either through percutaneous biopsy or open biopsy. In a percutaneous biopsy, a needle is advanced through the skin over the kidney and guided to the required place by ultrasound.

In an open biopsy, the sample is taken from the kidney during surgery.

Other treatment options available are:

  • Full range dialysis services and chronic dialysis on an outpatient basis.
  • Chronic peritoneal dialysis care, including continuous cycling peritoneal dialysis or continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis .
  • Real-time ultrasound guidance for Percutaneous needle biopsy of native kidneys and kidney transplants.
  • Percutaneous cannula placement through ultrasound guidance
  • Dialysis and transplant services for patients with end-stage renal complications.
  • Therapies to all end-stage renal disease, including kidney transplantation, hemodialysis, and peritoneal dialysis.
  • Continuous renal replacement therapy, including citrate anticoagulation for critically ill patients.

Blood Urea Nitrogen Test

The blood urea nitrogen test checks for other waste products in the blood, such as urea nitrogen.

Urea nitrogen occurs as proteins from food break down, and elevated levels may be a sign that the kidney is not filtering these waste products effectively.

A typical BUN level falls between 7 and 20 milligrams per deciliter. Higher values could be a sign of an underlying condition affecting the kidneys.

With that said, many other things can affect BUN levels, such as medications or antibiotics. A diet that is very high in protein diet may also affect levels.

Doctors will typically compare these results to the results of a creatine test to get a better understanding of how well the kidney is filtering this waste.

Imaging tests may help doctors identify any physical changes to the kidneys, such as injuries or kidney stones.

How Is Kidney Pain Treated

Treatment of kidney pain depends on what condition is causing it. In order to pinpoint a cause, a number of tools are available to help your doctor make a diagnosis:

  • Urinalysis: Checks for the presence of blood, excess white blood cells , proteins, and certain chemicals that are linked to various kidney disorders.
  • Imaging tests:Ultrasound or a CT scan provides an image of the physical structure of the kidneys and urinary tract, sees if stones are present, and helps determine if blood flow is adequate.

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What To Bring To Your First Appointment

Make sure you have these at your first visit:

  • A list of symptoms and how long you have had those symptoms
  • A list of all of your current doctors and their contact information
  • An updated list of medications
  • Current insurance cards
  • Your medical history
  • Other medical records including lab tests and any imaging studies of your abdomen you may have had

Your nephrologist will probably give you a physical exam and ask about your medical history. They may also do these tests:

Urine collection. Youâll pee in a cup. In some cases, you might have to collect your urine in a special container over 24 hours. A lab will check the levels of waste products, protein, hormones, minerals, and other things. They also look for blood or signs of inflammation.

Ultrasound. This imaging technique makes pictures of your kidneys by using sound waves.

CT scan. This is a series of detailed X-ray pictures shot from different angles. A computer makes a 3D image with them.

Biopsy. This is a procedure to remove and study one or more small pieces of your kidney. Your nephrologist may do the biopsy with a needle or during surgery. Theyâll check the samples under a microscope.

How To Get The Most Out Of Your Nephrologist Visit

Nephrology

Tips for your next nephrologist appointment

  • Ask questionsyour kidney doctor wants you to have all the answers you need to make informed health choices.
  • Take a pen and papersometimes it’s hard to remember or absorb new information. Make notes so you can refer to them later.
  • Take a loved one with youhearing information firsthand can help your care partner better understand your diagnosis. Your loved one may also have questions of his or her own.

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Best Nephrologists In Edmonton Ab

Very knowledgeable doctor who communicates and explains things in a careful manner. I feel like she treats the whole person not just my kidney issues. Dr. Amin Pisani. Nephrologist. 40 reviews. Dr. Amin Pisani’s Latest Rating. If you like to be bossed around by a doctor who almost caused you to have a stroke go ahead and see him. Dr. Darren Markland . Nephrologist. 21 reviews.

Ratemds.com

What Is A Nephrologist

Nephrologists, or kidney doctors, study the kidneys and any diseases that affect them. They complete 2 more years of training after medical school and residency.

If your primary care or family doctor thinks your kidneys arenât working well, they may send you to a nephrologist. Theyâll look for the cause of the problem and come up with a treatment plan that slows or stops it. You might need a referral from your regular doctor for insurance to cover the cost of your visit.

Some of the diseases nephrologists treat are:

Kidney disease. This is when your kidneys are damaged over time. You might not have severe symptoms until the disease is more advanced. But if your doctor catches it early, medications and lifestyle changes may help you avoid more damage.

Kidney failure. This is the late stage of kidney disease. If your nephrologist recommends dialysis , theyâll be in charge of your care. They may also suggest a kidney transplant. This is typically handled by a different team and a nephrologist who specializes in transplants. Youâll probably keep seeing this person until your transplant and after.

Kidney damage from cancer. Several types of cancer or their treatments can injure your kidneys. Examples of damage include blocked urine flow, toxin buildup in the kidneys, and sudden kidney failure. Cancers linked to kidney problems include:

  • Multiple myeloma
  • Colon cancer
  • Prostate cancer

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Nephrologist Training And Certification

A doctor may practice nephrology without becoming board certified in the specialty. However, education, training, experience and certification are key elements in establishing a doctors level of competence. Board certification verifies that a doctor has completed residency training in internal medicine and specialized training in nephrology, and has passed competency examinations.

A board-certified nephrologist has earned certification in nephrology by the American Board of Internal Medicine or the American Osteopathic Board of Internal Medicine.

A board-certified nephrologist has:

Conditions Treated By Kidney Doctors

Failing Kidneys and Different Treatment Options

Kidney doctors care for people with a number of different types of kidney disease including:

  • Acute kidney injury: Acute kidney disease refers to the rapid onset of kidney disease often related to conditions such as shock , dehydration, kidney problems related to surgery, or inadequate drainage from the urinary tract .
  • Chronic renal failure: Chronic kidney disease can be caused by a number of different conditions

There is a wide range of medical problems that can affect the kidneys in different ways. Some of the more common conditions which can cause kidney failure include:

  • Diabetes : Diabetes is the leading cause of kidney failure in the United States
  • Kidney disease related to high blood pressure and heart disease
  • Obesity
  • Kidney stones which cause obstruction
  • Congenital kidney problems such as horseshoe kidney
  • Glomerulonephritis: Glomerulonephritis is an inflammation of the kidneys which can be caused by a number of different processes, including the bacteria which causes strep throat.
  • Kidney disease related to lupus
  • Polycystic kidney disease: Cystic kidney disease is hereditary, though the severity of the disease, as well as age of onset, can vary
  • Autoimmune diseases such as IgA nephropathy
  • Kidney failure secondary to liver disease

Chronic kidney disease is described by five stages based on the severity of the disease. Grade 1 kidney failure refers to a mild disease, whereas grade 5 renal failure usually indicates that dialysis or a kidney transplant will be needed.

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How Does Blood Flow Through My Kidneys

Blood flows into your kidney through the renalartery. This large blood vessel branches into smaller and smaller blood vessels until the blood reaches the nephrons. In the nephron, your blood is filtered by the tiny blood vessels of the glomeruli and then flows out of your kidney through the renal vein.

Your blood circulates through your kidneys many times a day. In a single day, your kidneys filter about 150 quarts of blood. Most of the water and other substances that filter through your glomeruli are returned to your blood by the tubules. Only 1 to 2 quarts become urine.

What To Ask Your Nephrologist

You can ask these questions at your first appointment. Write the answers down, or have a loved one join you to take notes.

  • Why did my doctor refer me to you?
  • Why arenât my kidneys working well?
  • How poorly are they working compared to healthy kidneys?
  • Is it possible I have kidney disease? If so, can you explain what stage the disease is in and what that means?
  • What are my treatment options?
  • What are the side effects of each treatment?
  • Once I have a treatment plan, what are some tips that can help me stick with it?
  • Should I make lifestyle changes ?
  • Should I call you if I have new questions or problems?

Show Sources

Clinical Journal of American Society of Nephrology: âRenal Relevant Radiology: Use of Ultrasound in Kidney Disease and Nephrology Procedures.â

National Kidney Foundation: âWhy Are the Kidneys So Important?â âKnow Your Kidney Numbers: Two Simple Tests,â â10 Signs You May Have Kidney Disease,â âTips For Your Check-up,â âWhy Are Patients Asked for Urine Samples?â âEarly Symptoms of Chronic Kidney Disease,â âTests to Measure Kidney Function, Damage and Detect Abnormalities,â âWhat is a Kidney Biopsy?â âHealth Care Team,â âAbout Chronic Kidney Disease,â âNephrotic Syndrome,â âPolycystic Kidney Disease,â âYour First Visit with a Kidney Doctor.â

Renal Support Network: âTop 8 Questions a Patient Should Ask Their Nephrologist.â

American Kidney Fund: âChronic Kidney Disease .â

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What Do Nephrologists Treat

  • Kidney failure of any cause
  • Kidney transplants
  • Dialysis

Nephrologists manage the many conditions that cause renal impairment and renal failure. Their goal is to optimise renal function.

If a patients kidneys fail completely they will need dialysis essentially artificial kidneys.

Patients survive many years on dialysis, either chronic ambulatory peritoneal dialysis or haemodialysis.

Nephrologists care for these patients and any complications of their disease. They also manage patients who have had kidney transplants.

Treatments

The treatment offered by nephrologists varies depending on the cause of the kidney problem and its severity. They may:

  • Give medications alone
  • Initiate and maintain dialysis artificial kidney function, either CAPD or haemodialysis
  • Arrange renal transplant and then manage that in the long term

Kidney Stone Symptoms And When To See A Urologist

Kidney Disease â Symptoms to Watch

Kidney stones can happen to adults of any age and can be extremely inconvenient. If diagnosed early, stones can be treated more quickly. About 11% of men and 7% of women in the United States will experience a kidney stone at some point, and approximately half of those who experience kidney stones will get them again. Its important to know what the symptoms are, and when to see a urologist.

Kidney stones can be debilitating and painful . While a stone forms in the kidney, there may be no signs or symptoms. Most people start experiencing symptoms once the stone is formed and passes into the ureter . The most common kidney stone symptoms include:

  • Pain in the side and/or back
  • Pain in the lower abdomen and/or groin
  • Painful urination
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Frequent urination
  • You may be experiencing one or more of the above symptoms and think, Should I see a doctor? Are my symptoms that bad? You should make an appointment with a urologist when you experience any of the above symptoms for an extended period of time. If you are worried about your symptoms and think you may have kidney stones, dont hesitate to call and make an appointment. You should especially seek a urologist if you experience:

    • Pain so extreme that its hard to move or get up
    • Blood in the urine

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    Four Great Tips For Your First Visit

    To get you started, consider these tips:

    • Before your first appointment at DNA, please download and fill out our downloadable new patient forms and bring them with you when you come in. These forms can be found at https://www.dneph.com/resources/patient-forms/.
    • Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes early to your first appointment.
    • Some helpful items to bring with you include a list of symptoms and how long you have had them, a list of all of your doctors with their contact information, a list of all medications you are taking, insurance information, a drivers license or another form of photo ID, your medical history, and any other medical records including lab tests and imaging results.
    • Make a list of questions and concerns you have for your nephrologist.

    Comprehensive Care For Kidney Disease

    Welcome to Nephrology at Crystal Run. At Crystal Run, our fellowship-trained nephrologists diagnose and treat all aspects of kidney disease, including acute renal failure, chronic kidney disease, kidney stones, hypertension , hemodialysis, renal transplant , and electrolyte disorders .

    Our nephrology team is well-versed in treating patients with other disorders that affect the kidneys, such as systemic vasculitides , autoimmune diseases , as well as congenital or genetic conditions, such as polycystic kidney disease. Our nephrology team includes a designated Clinical Hypertension Specialist, recognized by the American Society of Hypertension.

    Nephrology is the branch of medicine that deals with the kidneys and kidney-related disorders. A kidney specialist, or renal doctor, may be called in to assess organ function or to treat potentially serious nephrology diseases such as kidney failure. Kidney disease treatment may include anything from medications to kidney dialysis and surgery.

    Contact Crystal Run Healthcare to schedule a consultation with a kidney doctor in the following areas:

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    Difference Between Urologist And Nephrologist

    An urologist has more surgical training. He deals primarily with the urinary tract and the male reproductive organs . The urinary tract includes the urethra, bladder, and ureters.

    For urologists, the kidney focuses on attention when it comes to urinary flow problems and kidney tumors. Of course, there is an overlap between the two disciplines.

    For example, chronic urinary obstruction can lead to so-called postrenal kidney failure, or even after removing the kidneys , dialysis can become mandatory.

    In the case of many symptoms, such as blood in the urine , especially if only traces of blood can be detected in the test strip or under the microscope , it is advisable to see both disciplines.

    In the case of any urological disease with increased kidney values , it makes sense to see a nephrologist. A timely presentation to the nephrologist can usually delay or even prevent the need for dialysis.

    Reasons To See A Nephrologist

    Kidney anatomy

    Most people dont go to a nephrologist without a referral from their primary care doctor. Typically, seeing a nephrologist means that you have kidney-related symptoms from an unknown cause or that you have health issues only a renal specialist knows how to treat. You might be referred to a nephrologist if you have the following signs or symptoms:

    Chronic Urinary Tract Infections

    If you get a lot of urinary tract infections , which are typically bladder infections, you are at greater risk for the infection to travel up to your kidneys. This also puts you more at risk of developing kidney disease, permanent kidney damage, or even kidney failure. Chronic UTI symptoms, especially blood in the urine, fever, and fatigue, can also indicate the early stages of bladder or kidney cancer.

    Recurring Kidney Stones

    Kidney stones are mineral- or salt-based deposits inside your kidneys, and they cause a lot of pain when passing through your urinary tract. If you get a lot of kidney stones, your kidneys are likely not filtering waste properly and are letting deposits accumulate.

    You can also develop kidney stones that begin to block glomerular filtration and lower the filtration rate. Any obstructions can begin to damage your kidneys and lead to chronic kidney disease.

    Foamy Urine

    Itchy Skin and Joint or Bone Pain

    Talk to your doctor if youâre experiencing these symptoms, as a referral to a nephrologist may be necessary.

    Show Sources

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    When To Get A Referral To A Nephrologist

    The time it’s best to see a nephrologist can certainly vary depending on your particular conditions. That said, you should ideally be seen by a nephrologist when your glomerular filtration rate starts trending down.

    Seeing a nephrologist is vital. Multiple medical studies have clearly proved that patients who are referred late to nephrologists are more likely to die, or progress to dialysis.

    What Conditions And Diseases Does A Nephrologist Treat

    A nephrologist treats kidney-related conditions and diseases including:

    • Diabetes, a chronic disease that affects your bodys ability to use sugar for energy

    • Fluid and electrolyte imbalance, which can be due to kidney disease, excessive diarrhea and vomiting, or certain medications

    • Gout, a metabolic imbalance leading to excess uric acid in the circulation and the accumulation of painful urate crystals within the joints.

    • High blood pressure , which can damage your kidneys. High blood pressure can also be caused by renal artery stenosis, a narrowing of the arteries that supply blood to your kidneys.

    • Kidney cancer, which is often treated by removing all or part of the affected kidney

    • Kidney disease, which can be due to kidney infection, kidney obstruction, and renal artery stenosis

    • Kidney failure, which occurs when your kidneys are unable to remove waste products from your body

    • Kidney stones, which are often due to chronic dehydration

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