Nephrologists are specialists in diseases that impact the kidney. Kidney problems are increasing in the globe with millions every year receiving treatment for kidney injuries as well as chronic kidney diseases (CKD). Actually kidney disease is the most fatal cause of death in the world and is the 9th most prevalent reason for death in the United States.
The United States, 15% of people suffer from chronic kidney diseases. Although 90% are unaware of it or do not consult a nephrologist until the condition becomes serious and costly.
If your kidneys fail, it is more likely than having your liver malfunction most likely due to chronic diseases that are developing in tandem. Kidney diseases can result due to existing health issues, such as obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and high pressure. It may also trigger hypertension and coronary diseases to develop even if you don't have any of these conditions prior to.
Chronic kidney disease can result in health problems such as osteoporosis, anemia, weak immune system or an unsteady heartbeat. This causes-and-effect connection shows how crucial it is to maintain healthy kidneys and be proactive in visiting a nephrologist to deal with and treat any kidney issues you might have.
The kidney specialists can create a treatment strategy to help to overcome kidneys that are not functioning properly. In some instances, kidney damage might be reversible if detected and treated promptly.
What Does a Nephrologist Do?
Also known as renal medicine or nephrology, it is a field in the field of internal medicine connected to kidney health. It is usually associated with hypertension , or high blood pressure.
Medical professionals, known as Nephrologists, diagnose and treat chronic and acute kidney problems and other kidney diseases. They also address related problems like the high pressure of blood, retention of fluids as well as mineral imbalances and electrolytes. Additionally, these doctors are responsible for dialysis treatments for kidneys which includes hemodialysis as well as peritoneal dialysis as well as their following care.
The experts at the field of kidney health examine the health of your kidneys and ensure your good health. The kidneys are crucial as they filter your blood to get rid of toxic substances and waste. Additionally, they regulate and balance the acid-base, water and mineral ratios within the body.
In the absence of proper filtering of your blood and balanced levels of nutrients and fluids your body could create a dangerous environment. If you have a low kidney function, it can make you more susceptible to long-term kidney damage, failure of the kidney or end-stage renal diseases, which requires dialysis on a regular basis.
The appointment with a nephrologist to discuss your treatment puts you in the care of professionals who can suggest the best treatment option. They are up-to-date with the latest developments in kidney issues to ensure you get the most accurate and complete treatment.
Education and Training
Nephrology Physicians are doctors of specialized training who have completed extensive training within the area of nephrology. They graduate from medical school as well as a fellowship that includes an accreditation from a board for their specialization.
This involves:
- The medical program lasts for four years in order to be awarded the title of Doctor of Medicine (MD) or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO)
- An intensive three-year program in internal medicine.
- A two to three-year fellowship in nephrology. There is the option of another year of fellowships in interventional renal nephrology or transplant nephrology.
- An exam to be certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine to become board certified in nephrology.
Reasons to See a Nephrologist
The majority of people don't visit the nephrologist unless they have the recommendation of their primary doctor. Typically, visiting a nephrologist indicates that you are suffering from kidney-related symptoms due to an unknown cause or you are suffering from medical issues that only a renal specialist can deal with. You may be referred an nephrologist when you exhibit these signs or symptoms:
Chronic Urinary Tract Infections
If you suffer from a high number of UTIs (UTI) which are generally bladder infections, then you are more likely to have the infection to progress into your kidneys. It also puts you susceptible to getting kidney damage, lasting damage to your kidneys, or even kidney failure. The persistent UTI symptoms, such as blood in urine or fever, as well as fatigue and fatigue may also signal beginning stages of bladder or kidney cancer.
Recurring Kidney Stones
Kidney stones are salt-based deposits in your kidneys. They can cause pain as they travel through the urinary tract. If you have a large amount of kidney stones the kidneys are probably not removing waste correctly and are allowing deposits to build up.
There is also the possibility of developing kidney stones that start to stop the glomerular filtering (part of the process of urination) and reduce the rate of filtration. Every obstruction can cause damage to your kidneys and eventually result in chronic kidney diseases.
Foamy Urine
The presence of bubbly or foamy urine indicates that there's proteins in the urine. The condition, known as proteinuria, could be the result of various reasons, with some benign, while others are more likely to result in kidney damage. The urine typically contains some protein waste, but it will go through your body without being noticed. When you are surrounded by high levels of protein will you start to notice bubbles or foams in the urine.
The protein spillover may cause other symptoms such as muscle cramping and shortness of breath and fatigue, and could suggest more moderate levels that are a sign of kidney failure or the beginning of kidney failure. The nephrologist you consult with will likely conduct various blood tests, including the serum creatinine, blood urea nitrogen and protein-creatinine ratio to assess your blood as well as your kidney's health.
Itchy Skin and Joint or Bone Pain
If you're suffering from bone and joint pain and an itchy, irritated skin, you may be suffering from renal bone disease, which is also called bone and mineral disorder. This disorder can be a result of kidney disease. It is caused by kidneys that are unable to maintain the level of calcium or phosphorus that your bones require. If left untreated, this problem could result in weakening bones, as well as blood vessel and heart issues.
Consult your physician in the event that you're experiencing any of these symptoms, because the referral to an nephrologist could be needed.
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