A nephrologist is a medical doctor who specializes in diagnosing, treating, and managing diseases and conditions related to the kidneys. This includes issues with kidney function, electrolyte imbalances, hypertension, and dialysis for patients with kidney failure. Here’s a detailed overview of what a nephrologist does:
Areas of Specialization
Kidney Function:
Diagnosing and managing chronic kidney disease (CKD) and acute kidney injury (AKI).
Hypertension:
Managing high blood pressure, especially when it is related to kidney problems.
Electrolyte Imbalances:
Treating imbalances in electrolytes like sodium, potassium, calcium, and phosphate.
Kidney Stones:
Diagnosing and managing the formation and treatment of kidney stones.
Dialysis:
Overseeing dialysis treatments for patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD).
Transplantation:
Pre- and post-operative care of kidney transplant patients.
Common Conditions Treated
Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD): Progressive loss of kidney function over time.
Acute Kidney Injury (AKI): Sudden loss of kidney function, often due to injury or illness.
Glomerulonephritis: Inflammation of the kidney’s filtering units (glomeruli).
Nephrotic Syndrome: A condition characterized by high levels of protein in the urine, low levels of protein in the blood, swelling, and high cholesterol.
Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD): A genetic disorder causing multiple cysts in the kidneys.
Diabetic Nephropathy: Kidney damage resulting from diabetes.
Hypertension (High Blood Pressure): Especially when difficult to control or secondary to kidney disease.
Electrolyte Disorders: Imbalances in blood minerals such as sodium, potassium, and calcium.
Kidney Infections: Such as pyelonephritis.
Renal Artery Stenosis: Narrowing of the arteries that supply blood to the kidneys.
Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD): Diagnosed by a primary care physician or when there are symptoms of kidney dysfunction.
Acute Kidney Injury (AKI): Sudden decline in kidney function, often in hospitalized patients.
Severe Hypertension: Especially when not controlled by standard treatments.
Electrolyte Imbalances: Persistent or severe imbalances not responding to usual treatments.
Proteinuria: High levels of protein in the urine.
Hematuria: Blood in the urine without a clear cause.
Frequent Kidney Stones: Recurrent episodes or large stones causing significant problems.
Edema: Swelling, particularly if associated with kidney disease.
Preparation for Dialysis: For patients with end-stage renal disease.
Kidney Transplant Evaluation: For those considering or preparing for a transplant.
Nephrologists play a crucial role in managing kidney health through preventive care, early diagnosis, and advanced treatment options. They often work closely with other healthcare providers, including primary care physicians, endocrinologists, and surgeons, to provide comprehensive care for patients with kidney-related conditions.
Dr.Rabiranjan Sahu Mondal
DNB (Nefrologist)
Chakratorty Pharmacy. Rail Market.ANARA.Purulia
Ph-9732135995,7797762620
Dr.Sujit Kumar
MBBS.MD.DNB(Fellow Nephrology) Appolo Gleneagle’s Hospital.Jamshedpur.Kidney Specialist.For appointment and details.Contact-Siddhartha Medical.Zila School More.Purulia.ph-8016008090/8016340044