Consult Nephrologists Online - Kidney Specialists (114 doctors)

Nephrology

Booking an appointment with a top nephrologist is now easier than ever with Apollo 24|7. Our user-friendly online platform and dedicated phone line allow you to schedule a consultation with a trusted kidney specialist at your convenience. With a wide network of experienced nephrologists and well-equipped hospitals and clinics, Apollo 24|7 ensures that you receive the best possible care for your kidney-related concerns. Don't wait any longer; book your appointment with a skilled nephrologist today and take the first step towards better kidney health.

What is Nephrology?

Nephrology is a medical speciality focused on the kidneys, specifically concerning their structure, function, diseases, and management. This branch of medicine is vital for diagnosing and treating various conditions related to kidney function such as chronic kidney disease, kidney stones, high blood pressure, and acid-base disorders. Nephrologists also manage the need for renal replacement therapy including dialysis and kidney transplant. 

The health of kidneys is crucial because they perform essential functions like filtering waste materials from the blood, balancing body fluids, regulating blood pressure, and producing hormones that control red blood cell production. Nephrology is, thus, central to overall healthcare, addressing critical aspects that can affect virtually every part of the human body.

Who is a Nephrologist?

A nephrologist is a medical doctor who specialises in the care of kidney diseases and the body’s fluid and mineral balance. Qualifications include extensive medical training: a degree in medicine, followed by postgraduate specialist training in nephrology. 

Nephrologists are experts in managing conditions such as acute or chronic kidney diseases, hypertension, electrolyte disturbances, and dialysis management. They are adept at interpreting tests and biopsies to diagnose kidney problems and plan appropriate treatment strategies. 

Their role is pivotal in the ongoing care of patients with kidney issues, working closely with dietitians and other healthcare providers to ensure comprehensive care and management.

What Does a Nephrologist Do?

A nephrologist’s role encompasses a wide range of responsibilities, reflecting the complexity and crucial nature of renal health in overall medical care.

Key Responsibilities:

• Diagnosis and Treatment: Nephrologists diagnose and treat kidney diseases such as chronic kidney disease, acute renal failure, and kidney stones. They employ diagnostic tests like blood tests, urine tests, and kidney biopsies to determine the specific type and stage of kidney disorder.

• Management of Kidney-Related Conditions: These specialists manage conditions directly affecting kidney function, including hypertension, electrolyte imbalances, and complications resulting from diabetes.

• Dialysis Management: Overseeing dialysis treatments, including hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis, is a significant part of a nephrologist’s role. They ensure the treatment is effective and adjust it based on the patient's changing health status.

• Kidney Transplant Care: Nephrologists are involved before, during, and after kidney transplants, providing care to both donors and recipients. They work in coordination with transplant surgeons and other healthcare professionals.

• Patient Education: Educating patients and their families about kidney health and treatments is vital, particularly in managing chronic conditions and promoting lifestyle choices that support renal and overall health.

• Daily Activities: Nephrologists typically spend their day consulting with patients in hospital settings or clinics, reviewing lab results to monitor treatment effectiveness, and adjusting medical regimens as needed. 

They also collaborate with other healthcare professionals to provide a holistic approach to kidney care and patient wellness. Their work is critical in managing the long-term health outcomes of their patients with chronic kidney conditions.

What are the Other Sub-specialities of Nephrology?

Nephrology encompasses several sub-specialities, each focusing on different aspects of kidney care and treatment. Understanding these can help patients and their families seek the right expertise for specific kidney-related health issues.

• Paediatric Nephrology: This sub-speciality deals with kidney diseases affecting infants, children, and adolescents. Paediatric nephrologists manage congenital kidney diseases, fluid and electrolyte disorders, and issues related to urine abnormalities or kidney malfunction in younger patients. They often collaborate with paediatricians to provide age-appropriate care and treatment plans, making them the primary kidney specialist for children.

• Transplant Nephrology: Specialising in kidney transplants, this area involves the care before, during, and after the transplant process. Transplant nephrologists evaluate potential recipients and donors, manage immunosuppressive medication regimens, and monitor post-transplant recovery. Their role is crucial in ensuring the longevity of the transplanted organ.

• Interventional Nephrology: This innovative field focuses on procedures that nephrologists perform, such as angioplasty, stenting of renal arteries, and insertion of dialysis catheters. Interventional nephrologists have specialised skills to handle complications related to kidney diseases, particularly those that may require procedural interventions without surgery.

• Chronic Kidney Disease Management: Experts in this sub-speciality focus on managing chronic kidney disease (CKD) from its earliest detection through to end-stage renal disease. These kidney doctors develop comprehensive management plans that slow disease progression, manage symptoms, and improve quality of life for patients living with CKD.

• Dialysis (Hemodialysis and Peritoneal Dialysis): This sub-speciality is dedicated to managing patients requiring dialysis. Hemodialysis involves filtering blood through a machine, and peritoneal dialysis uses the lining of the abdomen to filter blood inside the body. Specialists in this field are adept at both initiating and managing these life-sustaining treatments and are often referred to as the kidney failure doctor.

What are the Nephrology Examinations or Tests Performed by the Nephrologist?

Nephrologists perform a range of diagnostic tests to evaluate kidney function and diagnose kidney-related disorders. Understanding these tests can help patients better prepare and book nephrologist appointments with a clearer expectation of the procedures involved.

Common Nephrology Tests:

• Blood Tests: The most frequent are the serum creatinine and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) tests, which assess how well the kidneys are filtering waste from the blood. Elevated levels can indicate kidney impairment.

• Urine Tests: These include the routine urinalysis, which checks for the presence of protein, blood, and other substances in the urine. A 24-hour urine collection test measures the kidney's ability to filter various substances and is crucial for assessing the kidney's functional status.

• Imaging Tests: Ultrasound and CT scans are used to visualise the kidneys' structure and check for abnormalities such as tumours, stones, or blockages. These non-invasive tests are crucial for nephrologists to assess the physical condition of the kidneys.

• Kidney Biopsy: In this procedure, a small sample of kidney tissue is extracted and examined under a microscope. It's used to diagnose the specific type of kidney disease and determine the extent of kidney damage.

• Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR): This test measures how well the kidneys are cleaning the blood. It is calculated based on the creatinine levels, patient’s age, body size, and gender, providing a precise measure of kidney function.

• Electrolyte Testing: This test checks levels of electrolytes such as potassium, sodium, and chloride, which can be unbalanced in various kidney disorders.

Each test provides valuable information, helping the kidney stones doctor and other nephrology specialists to determine the best course of treatment for their patients. Regular monitoring through these tests is crucial for patients with chronic kidney disease or those at risk of kidney disorders.

What are the Common Conditions & Diseases that Nephrologists Treat?

Nephrologists specialise in treating a range of kidney-related conditions, focusing on diseases that impact the function and structure of the kidneys. 

Here are the top 15 conditions managed by these specialists:

1. Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) - Long-term damage to the kidneys that can worsen over time.

2. Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) - Sudden episode of kidney failure or kidney damage that happens within a few hours or days.

3. Kidney Stones - Hard deposits made of minerals and salts that form inside the kidneys.

4. Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD) - Genetic disorder causing numerous cysts to grow in the kidneys.

5. Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) - Infections in any part of the urinary system, primarily affecting the bladder and urethra.

6. Glomerulonephritis - Inflammation and damage to the kidney's filtering units called glomeruli.

7. Hypertension (High Blood Pressure) - Chronic high blood pressure leading to kidney damage.

8. Nephrotic Syndrome - A disorder that causes the body to excrete too much protein in the urine.

9. Electrolyte Imbalances - Abnormal levels of electrolytes in the body, affecting kidney function

10. Kidney Infections - Bacterial infections that spread to the kidneys.

11. Renal Artery Stenosis - Narrowing of the arteries that carry blood to the kidneys.

12. Kidney Cancer - Cancer that originates in the kidneys.

13. Hydronephrosis - Swelling of a kidney due to urine buildup.

14. End-Stage Kidney Disease (ESKD) - The final stage of chronic kidney disease requiring dialysis or transplantation.

15. Diabetic Nephropathy - Kidney damage caused by diabetes.

Reasons to See a Nephrologist

Visiting a nephrologist is crucial when experiencing symptoms indicating kidney disease or when managing chronic conditions that affect kidney health. Here are the primary reasons for consulting a specialist:

• Symptoms: Including swelling in legs and ankles, decreased urine output, persistent nausea, fatigue, and high blood pressure.

• Chronic Conditions: Such as diabetes or hypertension which significantly impact kidney function.

• Abnormal Test Results: Elevated creatinine or protein levels in urine suggesting kidney dysfunction.

• Family History: Genetic predisposition to kidney diseases like polycystic kidney disease.

For ongoing management or initial diagnosis, an online nephrologist consultation can be a practical first step towards specialist care.

What Types of Procedures do Nephrologists Perform?

Nephrologists are skilled in a variety of procedures that range from therapeutic treatments to more invasive surgeries. These procedures are essential for diagnosing, treating, and managing kidney-related diseases.

Top Therapies in Nephrology:

1. Hemodialysis: A treatment that filters and purifies the blood using a machine, removing waste products and excess fluids from the blood when the kidneys can no longer perform these functions.

2. Peritoneal Dialysis: An alternative to hemodialysis that uses the lining of the abdomen as a filter to clean the blood inside the body.

3. Kidney Transplant Management: Post-operative and long-term management of patients who have received a kidney transplant.

4. Blood Pressure Management: Regular monitoring and treatment to control high blood pressure, a common cause of kidney damage.

5. Anaemia Management: Treatment of anaemia associated with kidney disease, often involving erythropoietin therapy.

6. Electrolyte Management: Correcting imbalances in electrolytes, which are often disturbed by kidney disease.

7. Proteinuria Management: Reducing protein levels in the urine, which can indicate kidney damage.

Top Surgeries in Nephrology:

1. Kidney Biopsy: Removing a small piece of kidney tissue for laboratory analysis to diagnose the type of kidney disease.

2. Fistula Creation: Surgical creation of an arteriovenous fistula in the arm for long-term dialysis access.

3. Catheter Insertion for Dialysis: Placement of a catheter into a large vein as a means of access for hemodialysis.

4. Kidney Stone Removal: Surgical removal of kidney stones that cannot be passed naturally.

5. Renal Artery Stenting: Placement of a stent to open narrowed arteries supplying blood to the kidneys.

6. Nephrectomy: Partial or complete surgical removal of a kidney, usually due to severe disease or cancer.

7. Pyeloplasty: Surgical reconstruction of the renal pelvis to drain and decompress the kidney, often due to obstruction.

For individuals needing specialised kidney care, understanding the nephrologist fee associated with these procedures is crucial for preparing financially and logistically for treatment.

Why Choose an Apollo 24|7 Nephrologist?

Nephrologists at Apollo 24|7 are highly skilled and experienced in diagnosing and treating a wide range of kidney-related conditions. Our team of kidney specialists consists of expert physicians who have extensive training and qualifications in nephrology. 

They provide personalised care tailored to each patient's specific needs and conditions, ensuring the best possible outcomes.

At Apollo 24|7, patients have access to cutting-edge diagnostic and therapeutic technologies, enabling our nephrologists to deliver advanced treatment options. We offer seamless access to consultations, both online and in-clinic, making it convenient for patients to seek care from our expert nephrologists at their preferred time and location.

What to Expect When Visiting a Nephrologist?

Visiting a nephrologist typically involves thorough assessments aimed at understanding and managing kidney-related health issues. Here’s what patients can expect during their visit:

• Initial Consultation: The nephrologist will review your medical history, symptoms, and any prior test results. This is an opportunity to discuss any concerns and symptoms you've been experiencing.

• Physical Examination: A comprehensive physical exam to check for signs of kidney trouble such as swelling or changes in blood pressure.

• Diagnostic Tests: Expect to undergo urine tests, blood tests, and possibly imaging tests like ultrasounds or CT scans, to evaluate kidney function and structure.

• Treatment Planning: Based on the diagnosis, the nephrologist will outline a treatment plan which may include medications, lifestyle adjustments, or dialysis. You’ll receive detailed information about any necessary treatments or procedures.

• Follow-up Arrangements: Regular follow-up visits will be scheduled to monitor your condition and adjust the treatment as needed.

When selecting a specialist, consider looking up nephrologist reviews to ensure you are choosing someone reputable. Additionally, finding a nephrologist near me can make frequent visits more manageable, especially if ongoing treatment is needed.

How Can I Get an Appointment With a Nephrologist?

To book an appointment with a nephrologist at Apollo 24|7, you can follow these simple steps:

• Online Booking: Visit the Apollo 24|7 website and navigate to the "Book Appointment" section. Select "Nephrology" as the speciality and choose your preferred nephrologist. Select a suitable date and time slot and provide the necessary details to confirm your appointment.

• Apollo 24|7 App: Download the Apollo 24|7 app on your smartphone. Log in or create an account, then select "Book Appointment" from the main menu. Choose "Nephrology" as the speciality and follow the prompts to select your desired nephrologist, date, and time. Confirm your appointment by providing the required information.

• Offline Booking: You can also book an appointment by calling the Apollo 24|7 helpline or visiting your nearest Apollo Hospital or clinic. Provide the necessary details, including your preferred nephrologist and appointment date, to the customer service representative, who will assist you in scheduling your consultation.

• Referrals: If you have been referred to a nephrologist by another doctor, you can contact Apollo 24|7 and provide the referral details to book your appointment accordingly.