Nephrology is pediatric and adult study of kidneys and its diseases. It deals with the diagnosis and management of the kidneys which is vital for maintaining electrolyte balance and normal fluid in your body. It treats several conditions such as – kidney infections, kidney disease and kidney failure. Kidneys remove excess fluid and waste products from the body which are subjected to change due to various conditions or medicines.
Nephrologists are medical doctors who have done specialization in the treatment of kidneys. He will examine your condition, order for blood and urine tests, perform thorough diagnosis and treat your condition with proper medication or a procedure.
The tests performed by nephrologists are - Urine test called ACR (Albumin to Creatinine Ratio), Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR) and Serum creatinine.
With the progression of kidney disease, you may experience:
Diabetes is the most common cause of kidney disease. There can be both type 1 and type 2 diabetes. But heart disease and obesity may contribute to the damage that causes your kidneys to fail. Urinary tract issues and inflammation in different parts of your kidney can lead to functional decline in the long term.
Your kidneys may be damaged when you have poor appetite, weight loss, swollen ankles, hands or feet due to water retention (oedema), tiredness and shortness of breath.
When your kidneys fail, the accumulation of substances and increased urine concentration causes darker colors which may be red, brown or purple. The color change is due to abnormal protein or sugar, higher numbers of cellular casts, higher levels of red and white blood cells.
The doctor may prescribe medication to lower blood pressure. He or she may ask to reduce weight, if necessary, exercise more, restrict the intake of alcohol and quit the habit of smoking.
Visit and consult a Nephrologist if you are suffering from kidney problems!