Nephrologists diagnose and treat kidney-related diseases and disorders, often after being referred by a primary care physician. They use laboratory findings, diagnostic images, and symptoms to determine the best treatment plan, which may include medication, lifestyle changes, or surgery. After completing medical school and residency training, a nephrologist may enter a fellowship program and become board certified.
A nephrologist treats patients suffering from diseases and disorders related to the kidneys, including kidney stones, kidney failure and blood pressure problems. A specialist diagnoses the conditions by evaluating laboratory findings, diagnostic images, and symptoms. He or she determines the best medications or other treatments to offer based on specialized pathological knowledge. Nephrologists work in a variety of healthcare settings, including general hospitals, clinics specializing in internal medicine, and offices and practices.
Most people see nephrologists after being referred to them by their primary care physician. When finding a new patient, the nephrologist analyzes the information provided by the attending physician and performs a detailed physical examination. He or she may decide to perform diagnostic imaging tests or collect blood, urine, or tissue samples for careful laboratory analysis. The doctor analyzes the results of diagnostic tests to confirm the presence of a specific disease.
Many acute and chronic conditions can affect kidney function. Specialists often treat patients with urinary tract infections, recurrent kidney stones, kidney inflammation, and high blood pressure. Dozens of other conditions that cause or result from kidney problems are also addressed by nephrologists, including protein deficiencies, cancer and inherited autoimmune diseases.
After the diagnosis, the nephrologist can write a prescription or administer medication directly in his office. Some kidney problems require very specific dietary and lifestyle choices to avoid complications, and a nephrologist can create specialized treatment regimens for their patients. Based on the nature and severity of a patient’s problem, the physician may schedule follow-up visits or recommend surgical care.
When a patient has a life-threatening kidney problem, the nephrologist makes the decision whether to start dialysis or arrange for a kidney transplant. Some nephrologists, especially those who work in hospitals, participate in surgical procedures to offer advice and assistance. Patients often need to schedule frequent checkups with their nephrologists after treatment to ensure their conditions are properly cleared up.
Nephrologists acquire the knowledge and skills necessary to perform their jobs in medical school and in residency training programs. After earning a doctor of medicine degree, a new practitioner typically enters a three-year residency program at a hospital to gain formal training and experience under the guidance of established physicians. After residency training, the physician may enter a two- to three-year fellowship dedicated specifically to the practice of nephrology. A successful physician can take an exam to gain board certification and begin practicing independently.
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