Nephrology

Nephrology is a specialized branch of medicine that focuses on the diagnosis, treatment, and management of kidney-related diseases. Our nephrology services are designed to provide comprehensive care for patients with various kidney ailments, ensuring they receive the best possible treatment to maintain optimal kidney health. The kidneys play a vital role in maintaining overall health by filtering waste products, balancing electrolytes, and regulating blood pressure. Nephrology services address a wide range of kidney disorders, ensuring that patients receive personalized care. Proper kidney function is essential for detoxifying the body, maintaining fluid balance, and supporting overall bodily health.

  1. Purpose: Removes waste products and excess fluids from the blood when the kidneys are unable to do so effectively.
  2. Types:
    1. Hemodialysis: Blood is filtered through a machine outside the body and returned to the bloodstream.
    2. Peritoneal Dialysis: A special fluid is introduced into the abdominal cavity, where it absorbs waste products and is later drained.

  1. Purpose: Replaces a diseased kidney with a healthy donor kidney, offering the best chance for a normal life.
  2. Procedure: The donor kidney is surgically implanted, usually in the lower abdomen, and connected to the recipient’s blood vessels and bladder.

  1. Purpose: Provides access to the bloodstream for patients undergoing hemodialysis.
  2. Types:
    1. Arteriovenous Fistula (AVF): A connection between an artery and a vein, usually in the arm, to allow for high blood flow.
    2. Arteriovenous Graft (AVG): A synthetic tube connecting an artery and vein, used when veins are unsuitable for AVF.

  1. Purpose: Obtains a small sample of kidney tissue for examination under a microscope, helping diagnose specific kidney diseases.
  2. Procedure: A needle is inserted into the kidney, often guided by ultrasound, to collect tissue samples.

  1. Purpose: Surgical removal of a kidney, typically due to cancer, severe damage, or as a donor organ.
  2. Types:
    1. Partial Nephrectomy: Removes only the affected part of the kidney.
    2. Radical Nephrectomy: Removes the entire kidney, and sometimes surrounding structures.

  1. Purpose: Treats renal artery stenosis (narrowing of the arteries supplying the kidneys), improving blood flow and kidney function.
  2. Procedure: A catheter with a balloon is inserted into the renal artery to widen it, often followed by placing a stent to keep it open.

  1. Purpose: Relieves obstruction in the ureter, allowing urine to flow from the kidney to the bladder.
  2. Procedure: A thin, flexible tube is placed in the ureter to bypass obstructions like kidney stones or tumors.

  1. Purpose: Removes large kidney stones that cannot be passed naturally or treated with other methods.
  2. Procedure: A small incision is made in the back to access the kidney, and stones are removed using a nephroscope.

Chronic Kidney Disease is a progressive condition characterized by the gradual loss of kidney function over time. It is often caused by long-term conditions such as diabetes or hypertension. Symptoms of Chronic Kidney Disease:

  1. Fatigue and Weakness: Due to the buildup of toxins and waste in the bloodstream, individuals often experience persistent tiredness and fatigue.
  2.  Swelling (Edema): Swelling in the feet, ankles, hands, or face caused by fluid retention.
  3. Changes in Urination: Includes frequent urination, especially at night, or decreased urine output.
  4.  Blood in Urine: Hematuria can be an indication of kidney damage.
  5. Foamy Urine: Indicates the presence of protein in the urine.
  6. Persistent Itching: Caused by the buildup of waste products in the blood.
  7. Muscle Cramps: Electrolyte imbalances can lead to muscle cramps and spasms.

Acute Kidney Injury is a sudden decline in kidney function, often triggered by dehydration, infections, or certain medications. It requires immediate medical attention. Symptoms of Acute Kidney Injury:

  1. Sudden Reduction in Urine Output: Decreased urination or complete cessation.
  2.  Swelling in the Legs, Ankles, or Feet: Due to fluid retention.
  3.  Shortness of Breath: Resulting from fluid buildup in the lungs.
  4.  Fatigue and Weakness: Due to the accumulation of toxins in the bloodstream.
  5.  Confusion or Altered Mental State: Caused by electrolyte imbalances and waste accumulation.
  6. Chest Pain or Pressure: As a result of fluid overload affecting the heart.

Glomerulonephritis is the inflammation of the glomeruli, the tiny filters in the kidneys. It can be caused by infections, autoimmune diseases, or other systemic conditions. Symptoms of Glomerulonephritis:

  1. Blood in the Urine (Hematuria): Urine may appear pink or dark-colored.
  2.  Protein in the Urine (Proteinuria): Foamy urine due to excess protein loss.
  3. High Blood Pressure: Resulting from kidney dysfunction.
  4. Swelling (Edema): Particularly in the face, hands, feet, and abdomen.
  5. Fatigue: Due to anemia or the body’s response to kidney inflammation.
  6. Reduced Urine Output: Indicating impaired kidney function.

Kidney stones are hard deposits made of minerals and salts that form inside the kidneys. They can cause severe pain and urinary complications. Symptoms of Kidney Stones:

  1. Severe Pain: Intense pain in the side and back, below the ribs, that may radiate to the lower abdomen and groin.
  2. Painful Urination: Discomfort or burning sensation while urinating.
  3. Pink, Red, or Brown Urine: Indicating blood in the urine.
  4. Cloudy or Foul-Smelling Urine: Suggesting infection.
  5. Nausea and Vomiting: Due to severe pain or blockage.
  6. Frequent Urination: Urge to urinate more often than usual.

Polycystic Kidney Disease is a genetic disorder characterized by the growth of numerous cysts in the kidneys, which can lead to kidney failure if untreated. Symptoms of Polycystic Kidney Disease:

  1. High Blood Pressure: Often the first noticeable sign of PKD.
  2. Back or Side Pain: Caused by enlarged kidneys or cyst rupture.
  3. Blood in the Urine: Hematuria due to cyst bleeding.
  4. Frequent Kidney Infections: Due to structural abnormalities.
  5. Fullness in the Abdomen: From enlarged kidneys.
  6. Kidney Stones: Common in individuals with PKD.

Hypertension is both a cause and a symptom of kidney disease, leading to further kidney damage if left unmanaged. Symptoms of Hypertension:

  1. Headaches: Often in the morning or a persistent dull ache.
  2. Dizziness or Lightheadedness: Particularly upon standing.
  3. Blurred Vision: Due to retinal damage.
  4. Chest Pain: Indicating stress on the heart.
  5. Shortness of Breath: Related to heart or lung involvement.
  6. Nosebleeds: Occasional symptom of severe hypertension.

End-Stage Renal Disease is the final stage of Chronic Kidney Disease, where kidneys can no longer function adequately. Dialysis or kidney transplantation becomes necessary. Symptoms of End-Stage Renal Disease:

  1. Severe Fatigue: Due to anemia and toxin accumulation.
  2. Persistent Itching: From waste products in the blood.
  3. Muscle Cramps: Due to electrolyte imbalances.
  4. Loss of Appetite: Leading to malnutrition and weight loss.
  5. Swelling: Severe fluid retention in extremities.
  6. Difficulty Concentrating: Cognitive issues from toxin buildup.