Has your family doctor or your primary care physician told you to see a kidney specialist? You may have been a little scared, thinking, "Is there something seriously wrong with my kidneys?" But there's really no need to be scared. You've come to the right place. These doctors are the experts in kidney disease. So today, let's talk about who a kidney specialist, or nephrologist, is, what they do, and what you need to know when you go to see one.
Who is this kidney specialist (Nephrologist)?
Simply put, a Nephrologist is a doctor who specializes in our kidneys and any disease that affects the kidneys. We also call them "kidney doctors." After becoming a general doctor (MBBS), they spend another two years or more studying specifically about kidney diseases.
If your family doctor has any concerns about your kidney function, for example if your blood test shows a slightly elevated creatinine level, he or she will refer you to a nephrologist. This specialist will then diagnose the cause of your problem and develop a treatment plan to control it, stop it from getting worse, or cure it.
Main conditions treated by a Nephrologist
A nephrologist focuses on a variety of kidney-related problems. Let's look at a few of them.
| Medical condition | A simple explanation |
|---|---|
| Kidney Disease | This is a condition that gradually damages the kidneys over time. There may be no major symptoms in the early stages. However, if detected early, medication and lifestyle changes can help prevent further damage. |
| Kidney Failure | This is the final stage of kidney disease. If your doctor recommends dialysis - which is a machine that cleans your blood - at this point, he or she will be the one who will oversee the entire treatment. They may also suggest a kidney transplant . |
| High Blood Pressure | If you have high blood pressure that is difficult to control, a nephrologist can help. Sometimes kidney problems can also make it difficult to control blood pressure. |
| Kidney damage caused by cancer | Some types of cancer or their treatments can damage the kidneys. For example, conditions such as multiple myeloma, bladder cancer, cervical cancer, and colon cancer. |
| Nephrotic Syndrome | This causes a large amount of protein to be excreted in the urine. This can cause swelling in various parts of the body, especially around the eyes and legs. |
| Polycystic Kidney Disease | This is when fluid-filled cysts form inside the kidneys. If these become large, they can damage the kidneys and even cause them to fail. |
Things to bring when you go to see the doctor for the first time
If you prepare a little in advance when you go to see the doctor, it will be much easier for both you and the doctor. Here are some things to remember and take with you.
| What to bring | Why is that? (Importance) |
|---|---|
| A written list of your symptoms and how long they have been present. | This makes it easier for the doctor to get a clear picture of your condition. |
| A list of all medications you are currently taking (including those for other conditions). | Some medications can affect the kidneys, so this information is very important. |
| Your medical history and previous medical records , especially blood, urine and abdominal scan reports. | This helps to compare with old records and avoid unnecessary re-testing. |
| The names and contact details of other doctors you are currently taking medication from. | This will help you talk to them and get information if necessary. |
What kind of tests will the doctor do?
After discussing your symptoms and history, your doctor will examine you. In addition, they may order several tests to help determine the exact cause, such as:
- Urine tests: You will be asked to collect a small amount of urine in a cup. Sometimes you may also be asked to collect a 24-hour urine sample. The lab will test the urine for things like waste products, proteins, hormones, and minerals. The urine will also be checked for blood or signs of infection.
- Ultrasound scan: This uses sound waves to take pictures of your kidneys. This can help you see the size and shape of your kidneys, and whether there are any stones or tumors. It's painless.
- CT scan: This is a series of X-ray pictures. This creates a clearer, three-dimensional (3D) image of the kidneys.
- Biopsy: This involves removing a very small piece of tissue from the kidney using a needle and examining it under a microscope. This can help determine exactly what type of disease has damaged the kidney.
The most important thing is that if the doctor recommends a test, ask why and what to expect from it.
Questions to ask your nephrologist
When you see your doctor, don't hesitate to ask any questions you have. The more you know about your illness, the better off you will be. Here are some questions you can ask:
- Why did my doctor send me to you?
- Why is my kidney function declining?
- What is the level of functioning of my kidneys compared to healthy kidneys?
- Do I have kidney disease? If so, what stage is it in? What does that mean?
- What treatment options do I have?
- What are the side effects of each of those treatments?
- Once I start treatment, what tips will help me continue it properly?
- Do I need to make changes to my lifestyle (such as diet, exercise)?
- Should I call you if I have a new problem or symptom?
Write down the answers to these questions, or ask someone you're traveling with to write them down. That way, it'll be easier to remember later.
Take-Home Message
- A nephrologist is a doctor who specializes in kidney diseases. If your regular doctor has referred you, don't worry, you're in safe hands.
- When you go to the doctor, bring all your symptoms, medications you are taking, and previous reports in order.
- Don't hesitate to ask your doctor any questions you have, no matter how small. It's important to be well-informed about your condition.
- Follow your doctor's treatment plan and lifestyle changes (diet, exercise) closely. This will help control the damage to your kidneys.
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